After losing Youri Tielemans, the Villans have burst into life and are looking to ensure that they’ve got a replacement lined up for Emiliano Martinez in case he follows the Belgian out the door.
The likes of Zion Suzuki have emerged as options in recent weeks, but it’s now Noah Atubolu who could arrive to hand Unai Emery an instant boost.
| Football FanCast’s Verdict |
| Credibility |
Aston Villa have received a public boost in their chase to sign Atubolu. Freiburg’s sporting director, Jochen Saier, has revealed that the goalkeeper will be leaving the club after failing to extend his contract, which is set to expire in 2027. |
| Finances |
It remains to be seen how much the German club demand, but the ball isn’t necessarily in their court. With one year remaining on his deal and with their club chief already revealing his exit plans, Atubolu could leave for a bargain price this summer. |
| Insight |
The goalkeeper was Freiburg’s No.1 last season and maintained a solid save percentage of 64.2%, whilst making a total of 102 saves. For the right price, Aston Villa could certainly do a whole lot worse than the 24-year-old ahead of next season. |
| Impact |
The arrival of Atubolu would be good news for Martinez if he wants to leave. The South American has been linked with Juventus all summer and the exit door could swing open if Villa welcome his replacement ahead of time. |
Atubolu is certainly one to watch, as Villa eye an instant reunion between the shot-stopper and Freiburg teammate Manzambi.
Aston Villa gifted green light to sign Atubolu
In quotes relayed by Sport Witness, Freiburg’s sporting director Jochen Saier has publicly green-lit Atubolu’s departure amid reports that Aston Villa are interested and the shot-stopper is already in talks to leave the club.
“It’s no secret that we’ve been working on a contract extension for some time. Communication has always been open, and it’s perfectly legitimate that Noah has decided to pursue a different path. Noah is in talks with other clubs, and I’m convinced we’ll part ways on very good terms.” – Saier
It’s a major boost for Villa, who would be wise to swoop in and land what could quickly become a bargain deal.
Atubolu could ease Aston Villa’s Martinez fear
Aston Villa were wise to plan ahead of Tielemans’ departure, and they’ll be wise to repeat that plan ahead of Martinez’s potential exit.
The Argentine star has been on Juventus’ radar all summer long and whilst that has sparked plenty of fear in the Midlands, Atubolu would instantly ease that feeling.
| 25/26 |
Martinez |
Atubolu |
| Games |
32 |
34 |
| Saves |
95 |
102 |
| Clean sheets |
7 |
6 |
| Save percentage |
70.9% |
64.2% |
| Pass accuracy |
73.7% |
67% |
Although Atubolu still needs to improve in possession, his shot-stopping is close to the level of Martinez and should improve as he reaches his full potential in the coming years. At the right price, Villa should secure his signature.
