Aston Villa could be set for a major change between the posts this summer, with Benfica’s Anatoliy Trubin emerging as a leading target as uncertainty grows around Emiliano Martinez’s future.
Villa are actively monitoring Trubin’s situation after Benfica signaled they are open to selling the 23-year-old Ukrainian this summer. The Primeira Liga side want at least €20M for their number one, a fee Villa chiefs believe represents strong value for one of Europe’s most promising young goalkeepers.
The interest comes amid fresh speculation over Martinez. The World Cup winner has been linked with a big-money move to Saudi Arabia and remains on the radar of several European giants. While Unai Emery has publicly backed Martinez, Villa are preparing contingency plans and will not be caught short if their star keeper pushes for an exit.
Trubin ticks every box for Villa’s recruitment team. He joined Benfica from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2023 and immediately took the starting spot, showcasing elite reflexes, composure under pressure, and modern ball-playing ability. He recorded 16 clean sheets in the league last season and was one of Benfica’s standout performers in Europe.
Crucially, Trubin is pushing for a Premier League move. Sources close to the player say he’s attracted by Villa’s project, the chance to work under Emery, and the prospect of regular Champions League or Europa League football at Villa Park. The club’s rise under Emery and their data-driven approach to signings have made them a magnet for emerging talent.
Benfica won’t sell cheap, but they are sellers by design. With a €20M valuation, Trubin would be far less costly than Martinez’s potential replacement market, giving Villa room to invest elsewhere in the squad.
No official bid has been lodged yet, but contact has been made with Trubin’s camp. If Martinez signals he wants out, expect Villa to move fast.
This could be the first domino in a busy summer at Villa Park – and Trubin might just be Emery’s next statement signing.
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