Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier has been identified as “the ideal replacement” for Aston Villa shot-stopper Emi Martinez, should the Argentine leave, according to Sacha Tavolieri.
Aston Villa have confirmed that they will be playing European football for a third consecutive season, the latest in a string of brilliant campaigns under Unai Emery, who has completely transformed Villa’s fortunes since replacing Steven Gerrard in 2022. In the 2024/25 season, Villa competed in the Champions League for the first time in four decades, a testament to what Emery has accomplished.
The Villans could still secure Champions League football on the final day of the Premier League season, but to be playing on the continent again regardless is something that fans will be thrilled by. With the current campaign so close to an end, Villa are well-aware of the upcoming summer transfer window.
Star goalkeeper Emi Martinez could reportedly be on the move this summer, meaning Villa would desperately need to sign a shot-stopper were the World Cup winner to depart. It would appear that the Midlands club already have a target in mind.
Villa Like Chevalier
Frenchman has enjoyed a strong season
chevalier lille
According to Sky Sports Switzerland's Sacha Tavolieri on X, formerly known as Twitter, Lucas Chevalier is Aston Villa’s primary transfer target should Martinez depart. A product of Lille’s youth academy, Chevalier has been with the first-team since 2021 and has become their established first-choice goalkeeper, regarded as a promising prospect at just 23 years of age. Chevalier has been called "phenomenal" for his displays.
Lucas Chevalier 24/25 Season Stats
Competition
Ligue 1
Champions League
Champions League Qualifying
Lille fell just short of Champions League football, missing out by just a point and ending up in a Conference League place, finishing fifth behind Nice on goal difference. Villa would secure Europa League football at least with a win in their final game, which along with playing in the Premier League, could sway Chevalier into the move.
Martinez would, presumably, have to leave for Chevalier to join Villa, given he would not play as a back-up. In Chevalier, who is valued at £34 million amid interest from Manchester United, Villa would be signing a replacement that could play for them for at least a decade, should he continue to develop as he has been.
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( All stats are fromTransfermarktand are correct as of 23/05/2025 )
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