A club official has publicly given Aston Villa the green light to sign another star
Aston Villa are already closing in on the signing of Johan Manzambi, but could be set to swoop in and welcome a second SC Freiburg talent in a matter of weeks.
After losing Youri Tielemans, the Villans are looking to make sure they find a replacement for Emiliano Martinez should they follow the Belgian out the door.
The likes of Zion Suzuki have emerged as options in recent weeks, but now it’s Noah Atubolu who could come in to give Unai Emery a quick boost.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
Aston Villa have received a public boost in their pursuit of Atubolu’s signature. Freiburg’s sporting director, Jochen Saier, revealed that the goalkeeper will leave the club after failing to extend his contract, which is expected to expire in 2027. |
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Finance |
It remains to be seen how much the German club want, but the ball is not in their court. With one year left on his contract and their club manager having already revealed his exit plans, Atubolu could leave for a price this summer. |
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Understanding |
The goalkeeper was Freiburg’s number 1 last season and kept a solid 64.2%, while making 102 saves. For the right price, Aston Villa could do a lot worse than the 24-year-old ahead of next season. |
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Impact |
Atubolu’s arrival would be good news for Martinez if he wants to leave. The South American has been linked with Juventus throughout the summer and the exit door could open if Villa accept his replacement early. |
Atubolu is certainly one to watch, as Villa look for a reunion between the stopper and Freiburg team-mate Manzambi.
Aston Villa have given the green light to sign Atubolu
In quotes relayed by Sporting Witness, Freiburg sporting director Jochen Saier has shed light on Atubolu’s departure amid reports that Aston Villa are interested and the stopper is already in talks to leave the club.
“It’s no secret that we’ve been working on a contract extension for some time. Communication has been open, and it’s legitimate that Noah has decided to follow a different path. Noah is negotiating with other clubs, and I’m sure we’ll part ways amicably.” – Sayer
It’s a huge boost for Villa, who would be wise to swoop in and get what could be a quick cash deal.
Atubolu could ease Martinez’s fears of Aston Villa
Aston Villa were smart to plan ahead of Tielemans’ departure, and they will be smart to repeat that plan before Martinez’s exit.
The Argentina star has been on Juventus’ radar all summer and while that has sparked fears in the Midlands, Atubolu will allay that feeling instantly.
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25/26 |
Martinez |
Atubolu |
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Games |
32 |
34 |
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It saves |
95 |
102 |
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Clean sheets |
7 |
6 |
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Save the percentage |
70.9% |
64.2% |
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Pass accuracy |
73.7% |
67% |
While Atubolu still needs to improve in ball handling, his shooting is close to Martinez’s level and should improve as he reaches his full potential in the coming years. At the right price, Villa should secure his signature.
