- Sam C on X has reported that Aston Villa have tracked Anatoliy Trubin
- Villa have added Trubin to an extensive shortlist of replacements for Emi Martínez
- Juventus have agreed terms with Martínez, and are now in discussions with Villa over a transfer fee
Aston Villa have tracked Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin as they prepare for life after Emi Martínez, who is heavily expected to leave the club.
The World Cup winner looks set to depart this summer for Juventus. Martínez has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Italian side, and the two clubs are now discussing a transfer fee.
Given the strong possibility of Martínez’s blockbuster departure, the Villans have completely opened up their summer recruitment strategy to land an elite replacement capable of stepping immediately into the No 1 role.
A report from Sam C on X has revealed that Anatoliy Trubin is the latest name to have joined Villa’s extensive shortlist. They are said to have spent recent weeks closely monitoring the 24-year-old Ukrainian international. Other reports have indicated that his asking price is around €40 million (£34.5 million).
Trubin’s rising stock
Trubin has seen his profile skyrocket since moving to Lisbon from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2023. Standing at a massive 1.99 metres tall, the imposing keeper has earned a reputation for combining his immense physical presence with sharp reflexes and progressive distribution under pressure.
He captured headlines by scoring an extraordinary, last-minute header against Real Madrid. Beyond those dramatic heroics, his consistent excellence in the Primeira Liga and elite European competitions has made him one of the most sought-after young keepers on the continent.
Reports also suggest Tottenham hold an interest should Guglielmo Vicario leave, while Trubin favours a move to the Premier League.
Villa’s extensive goalkeeper shortlist
While Trubin is the latest high-profile target to emerge in Villa’s recruitment crosshairs, he is far from the only name the club has evaluated. Emery and his recruitment team are thoroughly assessing multiple profiles across Europe to find the right tactical fit.
James Trafford has been a name of long-standing interest for the Villans. The Manchester City man represents a top domestic option with massive long-term upside, and is open to leaving the Etihad this summer. His impressive shot-stopping reflexes and familiarity with English football make him a highly dependable candidate for a Premier League squad.
Villa’s scouting team has heavily monitored another high-potential target, Brighton shot-stopper Bart Verbruggen. The Dutch international fits the modern profile perfectly due to his superb ball-playing abilities. Emery highly values keepers who remain calm under pressure, making Verbruggen an ideal candidate for building possession directly from the back.
The club has also cast its net further into Europe by tracking the rapid development of Zion Suzuki. Currently impressing with Parma in Serie A, the dynamic goalkeeper has drawn admiration for his exceptional athleticism and fantastic claiming capabilities.
Finally, Villa have looked at developmental options for the future, including highly-rated French international Robin Risser. The young keeper has quietly featured on Villa’s extensive radar as a long-term project. While less experienced than the other names, Risser represents the club’s strategy of identifying raw talent before their market value explodes.
ReadAstonVilla verdict
Ultimately, Villa stand at a critical crossroads as they brace for Martínez’s looming departure to Juventus. Replacing an iconic World Cup winner challenges Villa immensely, but their comprehensive search proves their full preparation.
While Trubin represents a top-tier, physically imposing candidate at €40 million, alternatives like Trafford, Verbruggen, Suzuki, and Risser ensure the club has excellent contingencies.
Whether Villa ultimately land Trubin or pivot to another target, they remain determined to secure an elite No 1 to sustain their ambitious trajectory.
