- James Trafford’s price tag at Manchester City has been revealed
- He is likely one of the names Aston Villa consider as a replacement for Emi Martínez should he leave in the summer
- Martínez’s time in the midlands could be coming to an end
Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínez is likely to have another summer of speculation surrounding his future at the club, and it could be the year he departs. James Trafford is said to be one of the names the Villans are considering as a replacement for the Argentinian.
Ahead of the start of the season, Manchester United and Atletico Madrid were heavily rumoured to be interested in signing Martínez, with the goalkeeper open to leaving.
It was reported that he was even waiting at Bodymoor Heath on deadline day for a call about a move to Old Trafford, but it never came. The Red Devils instead opted for Senne Lammens, a younger and cheaper alternative.
His actions left a bitter taste in the mouths of supporters, and it took some time for them to regain their faith in him, although for some, it still hasn’t.
Given the financial position of the club, it’s highly likely that Villa will sanction a departure for the two-time Yashin Trophy winner in the summer. As one of the highest earners, and his current age being 33-years-old, it makes sense for him to now move on.
Trafford would be one of the names they consider as his replacement, and the Daily Mail has revealed the price tag set by Manchester City. That figure is currently £35-£40 million, a price the Villans could afford, should they receive a reasonable fee for Martínez.
Tottenham are also rumoured to be interested if Guglielmo Vicario were to move to Inter Milan.
Would Trafford leave?
The 23-year-old was re-signed by City last summer in a £27 million deal, after initially leaving in July 2023 to join Burnley. At the time, he was to be given the No 1 spot to replace Ederson, who left for Fenerbahçe.
However, Gianluigi Donnarumma became available, and the Citizens decided to act. This pushed Trafford to a backup role, which may be the reason he decides to depart for the second time in search of regular minutes.
| Competition | Appearances | Clean Sheets |
| Premier League | 3 | 1 |
| Carabao Cup | 6 | 4 |
| FA Cup | 4 | 2 |
| UEFA Champions League | 1 | 0 |
| Total | 14 | 7 |
Offering him the starting jersey at a club potentially in the Champions League next season will not only appeal to him but may also be exactly what he needs to reach his potential.
He is certainly a name for Villa supporters to keep an eye on this summer.
