Aston Villa's future between the posts could see a significant shift, with the club reportedly identifying a Bundesliga star as a potential successor to World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emi Martinez.
Martinez's Near Exit and Villa's Contingency Plan
The prospect of losing their Argentine number one became a stark reality for Villa last summer. Emi Martinez was heavily linked with a move to Manchester United in August, speculation that grew so intense he was omitted from the squad for the Premier League match against Crystal Palace on August 31. The transfer collapsed only when United opted to sign Royal Antwerp's Senne Lammens instead.
Despite Martinez remaining at Villa Park, the episode highlighted the club's potential vulnerability. As the current campaign progresses, Villa's scouts appear to be preparing for all eventualities, with one name already emerging as a leading candidate should the 33-year-old seek a new challenge.
Moritz Nicolas: The Bundesliga Shot-Stopper with European Ambitions
According to reports from Sky Sports Germany, Borussia Monchengladbach's first-choice goalkeeper, Moritz Nicolas, is keen on a move to a 'top European club' in the summer of 2026. The 28-year-old German, who stands at 6ft 4in, has established himself as the regular number one under manager Eugen Polanski.
While Nicolas harbours dreams of European football with his current club, a legendary force in the 1970s, he is reportedly realistic about their current trajectory. Monchengladbach sit 12th in the 18-team Bundesliga, making continental qualification a distant prospect. This reality has alerted several clubs, with Aston Villa among those credited with a serious interest.
Villa's European Ambition Could Be The Deciding Factor
The report suggests Villa's hierarchy view Nicolas as a possible long-term successor to Martinez. A summer reshuffle is expected at Monchengladbach, with backup keeper Jonas Omlin also likely to depart, potentially smoothing the path for a sale.
However, any deal for Nicolas is likely to hinge on two key factors at Villa Park. Firstly, whether Emi Martinez finally departs the club, and secondly, if Unai Emery's side can maintain their push for European football. Villa currently occupy fourth place in the Premier League, a Champions League qualification spot, and are competing in this season's UEFA Europa League. This status could be crucial in attracting a player of Nicolas's ambitions.
Martinez has featured in 11 of Villa's 13 league games this season, but the club is clearly planning for a future that may not include their celebrated goalkeeper.
