Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier
Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier (Image: Getty Images)
Aston Villa have reportedly opened talks with goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier about completing a move to the club this summer, in what could yet prove to be a transfer window of substantial change for the club's goalkeeping department.
Villa have already bid farewell to Swedish international Robin Olsen, whose return to boyhood club Malmo has already been confirmed following the culmination of the campaign over the weekend, while doubts remain over the future of Emiliano Martinez.
The Argentinian first choice, who has spent five years at Villa Park since moving from Arsenal for £20m, was tearful as he left the pitch following Villa's last home game of the campaign, the win over Tottenham Hotspur a little over a week ago. That prompted rumours that he had played his final game in B6.
That's despite the fact that Martinez signed a new long-term contract with Villa last summer; prior to the new season beginning, the 32-year-old agreed fresh terms on a deal which runs until the summer of 2029, so in the event clubs come calling this summer Villa will have a particularly strong hand in any negotiations.
Should Martinez leave - something Unai Emery didn't entertain when he was asked after the final day defeat to Manchester United whether that had been Martinez's last appearance for the club, in a match in which he was sent off before half time - Villa will need likely two new goalkeepers, or consider promoting young Joe Gauci to becoming a first choice's understudy.
They've been linked with both Joan Garcia of Espanyol and also Caoimhin Kelleher of Liverpool, but now links have emerged in France with Lille goalie Chevalier, a former France under 21 international. Now 23, he has been a regular for Lille in recent years and has kept 44 clean sheets in 127 appearances.
Reports suggest that Villa's president of football operations Monchi, who has a sizeable task on his hands again this summer as far as recruitment goes, has touched base with Chevalier's representatives about the prospect of completing a move to Villa this summer. It's considered that €40m would prompt Lille to sell a player who has two years left on his contract and is eager for a crack at England.
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The brilliant Aston Villa merchandise that every fan will want to own
Aston Villa fans can celebrate the end of the season and their love of all things claret and blue in style by getting their hands on some limited edition merchandise.
We've taken a look at a few products in the Villa store for those wishing to add a bit of class to their bedroom, homes or maybe a home bar?
These products are available for a limited time and have that wow factor that would be the envy of any supporter.
The first product we spotted is the wonderful Aston Villa 'dream scene' painting.
It depicts the greats of Villa past and present with the likes of Unai Emery sharing a conversation with Ron Saunders, and Peter Withe sharing a joke with Gareth Barry.
The brilliant dressing room scene is available on a 130 x 43cm canvas and comes with a souvenir booklet. There were only 150 of these made to commemorate Villa's 150 year anniversary.
You can buy it here
If you want a cheaper alternative, you could try the 90 x 60cm lithos print of the same scene, again with the booklet and a limited edition piece.
You can buy that here
If you fancy a bit of fun and owning your very own Villa Park, you can with this construction model replica of the stadium.
Complete with club branding, this is fun to assemble and will be the perfect addition to your household or workplace.
You can buy it here
Maybe you'd like to construct a replica of the Villa players and staff bus that they travel to away games in? You can now purchase that from the club shop, by clicking here
Aston Villa adidas 150th Anniversary Shirt 24-25 (£55)
The aforementioned blacked-out anniversary kit has proven to be hugely popular with fans, particularly those who have noticed the subtle nods to Villa's history in the details.
Due to the high demand, the club store currently only has kids sizes 7 - 9 years old in stock at a price of £55. This item has an 'almost gone' tag on the site.
Buy here.
Aston Villa adidas 150th Anniversary Track Top - Claret (£70)
This long sleeve track top has also proven to be a popular pick amongst fans. The club store describes the jacket by saying:
"Before football players take the pitch for warmups, they answer questions from the media wearing an adidas jacket like this one."
Buy here.
Aston Villa 150 Year Anniversary Hoodie - Navy (£45)
Featuring a retro club badge, this hoodie is still available in all Mens' sizes on the club store, which describes the item by saying "Relax in style and comfort. Featuring the iconic club crest, this is an essential item for fans of all ages."
This item is also available in claret for both men and women, though only in sizes XL and S for women limited stock left.
Buy navy here and claret here.
Aston Villa 150 Years in Pictures Book (£25)
The first of two books available to purchase in Villa's 150th season. The describes the picture book as a way to "Celebrate the storied history of Aston Villa and their illustrious history spanning a century and a half with this premium-quality photo book."
Buy here.
Aston Villa 150 Years Book Volume Two (£40)
The long-awaited second volume moves Aston Villa's remarkable story forward – with the ups and downs between 1950 and 2024 given the same care and attention as the first volume.
Buy here.
Aston Villa 150 Year Anniversary Polo Shirt - White (£30)
"Represent your club wherever you go. Suitable for matchday and casual wear, the polo is perfect for fans of all ages."
This item is available in all sizes but XS on the club store and is also available for kids in claret at a higher price of £35.
Buy the mens' polo here and the kids' claret polo here.
Aston Villa 150 Year Anniversary T-Shirt - Claret and Navy (£25)
"Suitable for wearing on matchdays and beyond, this is a must-have for supporters of all ages. Perfect for walks with the dog, or when relaxing on holiday, the t-shirt allows you to proudly sport your pride and passion."
Buy mens' claret here, womens' claret here and navy here.
Aston Villa 150 Years Anniversary Scarf - Claret (£15)
"Take the love for your team with you. The scarf tops off your winter look, and is an essential item for supporters."
Buy the scarf here.
Aston Villa 150 Years Badge & Keyring Set - Boxed (£15)
Display the love for your team. Perfect for your hat or scarf, this is a must-have for fans of all ages.
Buy the set here.
Aston Villa 150 Years Mug - 11oz (£8)
"Start your day off right with a drink from this. Whether it's tea, coffee or hot chocolate this mug is perfect for fans to enjoy an exquisite beverage."
Buy the mug here.
Everyday, the BirminghamLive football desk strive to deliver all manner of news, features and transfer-related stories as a part of our overall package of Aston Villa content.
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