Aston Villa are preparing to submit a bid for Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser, according to French outlet L'Equipe, as they look to replace Emiliano Martinez. The Argentina international has reached an agreement to join Juventus after the World Cup, ending his six-year stint at Villa Park.
Martinez's departure and Villa's search
Martinez joined Aston Villa from Arsenal in 2020 for £17 million and played a key role in the club's Europa League triumph last season under Unai Emery. He came close to leaving last year, with Manchester United expressing interest. In May, Martinez hinted at a possible exit, stating: "Sometimes football can change, managers can come in and go. In football people move around the place. It doesn't mean that I don't have full respect for the club."
Risser identified as successor
L'Equipe reports that Villa have been monitoring Risser's progress in Ligue 1 for several months and are now planning to launch an official offer. The 21-year-old joined Lens from Strasbourg last summer for €3 million (£2.5 million) and has impressed in his debut season. In May, he was awarded Ligue 1 Goalkeeper of the Year and named in the division's Team of the Season.
Lens keen to keep Risser
Despite Villa's interest, Lens are determined to retain the young goalkeeper. Risser is currently with the France squad for the World Cup, where he serves as third choice behind Mike Maignan and Brice Samba. His potential move to Villa would see him step into the shoes of Martinez, who won two Golden Gloves with the club and helped secure their Europa League victory.
Martinez, reflecting on his time at Villa, said: "I have a commitment with Aston Villa. I am a World Cup winner with Aston Villa. I have won two Golden Gloves with Aston Villa. I will always and forever love this club."
