Aston Villa Targeting Two French Goalkeepers
Juba Touabi, Media365: published on Monday, May 11, 2026 at 7:26 PM
The Premier League club is gearing up for a major shake-up and is eyeing the Ligue 1 to strengthen its goalkeeper position.
The upcoming off-season promises to be eventful for Birmingham. Aston Villa is preparing to make several changes during the upcoming summer transfer market, starting with a shake-up in their goalkeeping department. Emiliano Martinez, the Argentine goalkeeper and iconic figure of the Villans, is set to leave the club to take on a new challenge next season. With a contract until 2029 and valued at €15 million on the market, the World Cup champion will leave behind a strategic position to fill. The English leaders plan to reinvest the proceeds from this sale to bet on a young talent looking to make a long-term impact.
Risser and Restes, Aston Villa’s Targets
According to reports from Foot Mercato, Aston Villa has decided to look for Martinez’s successor in France. The name of Robin Risser, goalkeeper for Racing Club de Lens, is said to be at the top of the English club’s target list. Having had a remarkable season, the 21-year-old goalkeeper has established himself as one of the best in his position in Ligue 1, naturally attracting interest from several European suitors. But the task ahead seems challenging for the Villans. The Sang et Or have no intention of parting ways with their gem, tied to the northern club until June 2030. No departure is currently being considered from Artois.
To avoid being left with no options in case of failure, Aston Villa is exploring a second option, also in Ligue 1. The English club is closely interested in Guillaume Restes, a young goalkeeper from Toulouse FC. Also 21 years old, the goalkeeper, developed at the club, has shown solid performances in the French elite. The opportunity to join the Premier League could attract him and encourage him to take the leap abroad.
