Despite Aston Villa’s public declarations regarding Martínez’s vital role in the squad, the club has reportedly slapped a €12 million price tag on the Argentine goalkeeper. This valuation suggests that the hierarchy is ready to do business if their demands are met, proving that every player has his price in the current market. However, this escalating tension is far from an isolated incident; rather, it represents the latest chapter in a turbulent relationship, marking yet another occasion where the World Cup winner has clashed with Villa's management in an attempt to force a move away from the club.
This pattern of friction dates back to the end of the 2024-2025 season, when Martínez’s public push for an exit culminated in a tearful farewell to fans against Tottenham, prompting manager Unai Emery to drop him for the season finale. The drama peaked on deadline day in 2025, when the keeper spent his final hours at Villa's training ground waiting for a Manchester United move that ultimately collapsed. Although Martínez subsequently recommitted to the team, this latest standoff and the newly set €12 million price tag indicate that their uneasy truce has finally reached its limit.