The 32-year-old has firmly established himself as an integral part of our team as his decisive contributions have played a pivotal role in our progression and development into a side competing at a higher level.
_**READ MORE: [Exit talk persists as Villa could face key choice on stalwart’s future](https://talk-villa.com/aston-villa-transfer-news-lucas-digne-atletico-madrid-links-persist/)**_
With his experience, leadership, winning mentality and culture-setting personality, he is a huge presence for us on and off the pitch, and it’s hoped that he continues to play a fundamental role for Unai Emery moving forward.
However, particularly since his emotional reaction after the full-time whistle in our final home game of last season, speculation has been rife over his future and endless links have been made pairing him with an exit this summer.
[Fabrizio Romano, writing for GiveMeSport](https://www.givemesport.com/manchester-united-move-approved-by-world-cup-winner-fabrizio-romano-exclusive/), notes that the Argentine shot-stopper is planning to leave Villa this summer and is open to making the move to Old Trafford.
There is no suggestion that talks have been held between the two clubs or with Martinez on personal terms to move closer to an agreement, and so at this stage it remains to be seen if a formal bid comes in to force Villa into making a crucial decision.
With Robin Olsen having already moved on due to his expiring contract, Villa have work to do in the goalkeeping department as it is, but time will tell if there is a major void that will need to be filled before the new season gets underway.
Albeit Martinez did endure a dip in form last season, it’s not easy to replace players of his stature and class, and so it remains to be seen if that’s what Villa face later this summer, or if he ultimately ends up staying and leading us forward in our bid for silverware and Champions League qualification next season.
While it’s one thing to suggest that a player is open to leaving, it’s another entirely for the two clubs to reach an actual agreement over a transfer, and so while many will no doubt be frustrated and annoyed if Martinez does end up joining Man Utd, there is still so much to sort out before it becomes a serious possibility.
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