To think that Emi Martinez would have been worth £20 million at the start of the Premier League season is nothing short of miraculous. The Argentine goalkeeper was playing second fiddle to Bernd Leno. Who, at the time, was considered strides ahead of his second-string colleague. Fast-forward 12 months and Martinez has picked up an FA Cup winners medal and suggestions the German international should be the one moved on.
Arsenal have needed financial injection throughout the window. So far, only Henrikh Mkhitaryan has departed, saving the club a significant wage packet. Plus, Konstantinos Mavropanos has left on loan to Stuttgart for a small loan-fee.
Martinez Bid Suitable
TGT understands that Villa’s bid is ‘suitable’ to Arsenal. The offer is close to Arsenal’s £20 million valuation of the goalkeeper. This would represent a significant amount of income for the club.
Arsenal have been in pursuit of Atletico Madrid’s Thomas Partey but have stumbled at the £45 million release clause of the midfielder. The sale of Martinez could aid in the Ghanaian’s possible transfer.
However, it may not be that simple. Arsenal will require a suitable replacement first. Additionally, Matt Macey, the third-choice keeper, is not thought of as an option to be the club’s number two.
Brentford’s David Raya is the club’s first choice to replace Martinez. The 24-year-old had a strong year for the club as they sought promotion to the Premier League. Brentford are adamant that Raya is not for sale but there are rumours Raya is open to a move to the Emirates.
Arsenal’s second choice keepers have always been given ample opportunities in cup competitions both domestically and in Europe. Moreover, this proposition is attractive to Raya. The likes of David Ospina, Wojciech Szczesny and Martinez all played as the club’s first team keeper. This history of opportunities has played dividend in attracting first-choice keepers like Raya.
The problem is the fee. Brentford will require a significant transfer fee of ~£15 million for Raya. This would consume most of the money recouped from the Martinez sale. Leading to questions as to whether selling a keeper of Martinez’s quality is worth it?