Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez’s time at Aston Villa seems to be nearing its end. Even though he’s got a contract until 2029, the Argentine keeper has reportedly made up his mind to move on and take the next step in his career after this season. According to journalist Fernando Czyz from DSports, both FC Barcelona and Manchester United have already shown formal interest in signing the World Cup winner—so get ready for a heated summer transfer battle.

The signs of a possible goodbye are already there. Martínez looked teary-eyed after the recent 2–0 win over Tottenham, and his emotional wave to the fans at Villa Park didn’t go unnoticed. Although coach Unai Emery didn’t confirm anything, it definitely felt like a farewell. Their upcoming match against Manchester United, which could seal a Champions League spot, might be his last game in a Villa shirt.

Two big clubs with problems in goal

Barcelona's situation between the sticks isn’t looking great. Marc-André ter Stegen still hasn’t fully recovered from injury, and there are doubts about Wojciech Szczęsny, who was brought in on a short-term deal back in January. That’s why Martínez, at 33, is seen as the perfect fit: experienced, dependable, and with a winning mentality—exactly what the Catalans need.

Manchester United have their own issues too. André Onana hasn’t quite lived up to expectations, and criticism has been loud—some fans and even club legends are calling for David de Gea to make a comeback. In this context, Dibu would bring leadership and much-needed stability to a position that’s been shaky all season long.

Since joining Aston Villa in 2020, Martínez has become a true leader: 211 games, 69 clean sheets, and a big reason behind the club’s return to European competitions. And beyond the numbers, he’s collected major individual honors like The Best and the Lev Yashin Award. Now, as Villa pushes to return to the continental elite, it looks like their star keeper is getting ready to start a new chapter with one of the giants of European football.