Aston Villa are reportedly ready to listen to offers for first-team regulars Emiliano Martinez and Leon Bailey, with both players attracting strong interest from Saudi Pro League clubs ahead of the summer transfer window. The club’s willingness to consider these sales is driven by the need to comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR), which require clubs to keep losses within a £105 million limit over three years.
Villa’s significant wage bill and recent transfer spending mean that, even after high-profile sales such as Moussa Diaby and Jhon Duran to Saudi clubs, further departures may be necessary to balance the books and provide manager Unai Emery with a workable transfer budget.
Multiple Saudi clubs are interested in both Martinez and Bailey, with sources confirming that the pair are on the radar for big-money moves to the Middle East. The identities of the specific Saudi clubs have not yet been disclosed.
The Argentine goalkeeper, a two-time Yashin Trophy winner and World Cup champion, is under contract at Villa Park until 2029. Despite his status, Martinez is one of Villa’s highest earners and has experienced a dip in form this season, leading to speculation that the club may feel the time is right to cash in, especially as he approaches his 33rd birthday.
Leon Bailey, whose contract runs until 2027, has seen his role diminish this season after a strong campaign last year. While he was previously linked with Premier League clubs like Manchester United and Tottenham, a move to Saudi Arabia now appears likely.
Villa would seek to make a profit on Martinez, who was signed from Arsenal for around £17–20 million in 2020. The club has been linked with Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, indicating preparations for a possible departure.
Villa’s willingness to sell Martinez and Bailey, regardless of Champions League qualification, underscores the financial balancing act facing the club this summer. Both players could follow the recent path of Diaby and Duran, with big-money Saudi moves looming as Villa seek to comply with financial regulations and reshape their squad.