Overview

• Aston Villa turned down Manchester United’s £40 million proposal and insists that Emiliano Martínez’s €50 million release clause must be met.
• Martínez’s contract, which runs through 2029, and his vice-captain role under Unai Emery reinforce Villa’s valuation.
• The club secured Dutch keeper Marco Bizot earlier this month to provide immediate cover if Martínez departs.
• Regulatory changes boosting foreign-player quotas have spurred lucrative bids from Saudi Pro League clubs.
• Manchester United has opened talks on Royal Antwerp’s Senne Lammens as a contingency plan if Villa’s valuation holds.