Aston Villa are monitoring Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu as the future of current number one Emiliano Martinez remains uncertain, according to Fussballdaten. The Villans are reportedly engaged in a competitive pursuit of the 21-year-old, facing competition from Bournemouth, Inter Milan, and Eintracht Frankfurt.
Martinez has attracted interest from several high-profile clubs following a strong showing for Argentina, including a record-breaking 11 saves in the recent World Cup final loss to Spain. Former Villa player Henri Lansbury has suggested that Martinez may be open to a move, stating he believes the goalkeeper will be tempted by offers from larger clubs.
Atubolu enjoyed a successful 2023-24 season with Freiburg, playing every minute of their Europa League campaign, which culminated in a final defeat to Aston Villa. He kept five clean sheets en route to the final, establishing himself as a key player for the Bundesliga side. Freiburg value the German goalkeeper in the region of €25-30 million (£21.2-£25.5m), and Villa are reportedly preparing a formal offer.
Villa view Atubolu as a potentially ideal fit for their system, though they are also considering options for a second-choice keeper. The club previously made contact regarding a deal for Japan international Zion Suzuki, but he is also attracting attention from other Premier League clubs, including Leeds United and Newcastle. Should Martinez depart, Atubolu would likely become Villa’s first-choice goalkeeper, providing a long-term solution in the position.
