Aston Villa ramp up interest in Liverpool star as Emery searches for long-term upgrade on key player

Aston Villa could reportedly look to replace Emiliano Martinez with Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who could leave Anfield this summer. 

It is believed that Unai Emery would ideally like to keep Martinez, but with Tottenham showing an interest in him, he could potentially be sold.

While Kelleher hasn’t been a regular for Liverpool this season he has still shone when given the opportunity, so could flourish at Villa Park next season.

As previously reported by TEAMtalk, Martinez is the subject of interest from Tottenham and Chelsea, along with several other European clubs after having an impressive campaign.

Indeed, the 30-year-old shot-stopper gained global attention after his heroics in the World Cup final for Argentina last year, helping his country win the competition for the first time since 1986.

For Aston Villa, Martinez has made 29 appearances in the Premier League this term, keeping 11 clean sheets in a memorable campaign for the Midlands club.

Indeed, Emery’s team are currently dreaming of European football next season after winning their last five matches. Now, they currently sit in sixth place in the table.

READ MORE: Unai Emery to use Arsenal connections in Aston Villa pursuit of Gunners attacker who needs transfer

Emery eyes Kelleher as Martinez replacement

According to a report from the Transfer Room, Villa are preparing to make a move for Kelleher if Martinez leaves, with the Liverpool backup keeper looking for a new challenge elsewhere.

This has also been confirmed by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, who has said that Liverpool are already searching for potential replacements for the Republic of Ireland international.

On Twitter, he wrote: “Understand Liverpool could also look at a new back up goalkeeper in the summer as Caoimhin Kelleher hopes to get more minutes as a regular starter elsewhere.

“Many clubs are already showing interest in Kelleher loan deal in case Liverpool gives the green light.”

Indeed, along with Villa, Leicester and Celtic are also believed to have Kelleher on their radar.

The 24-year-old last played for Liverpool in an FA Cup third-round replay against Wolves in January, where the goalkeeper kept a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory.

Also, in two Carabao Cup ties against Manchester City and Derby, Kelleher once again put in two impressive performances – saving three penalties in a shoot-out against the Rams to ensure the Reds progressed to the next round.

With that in mind, if Villa do lose Martinez, signing Kelleher would make sure that the club keep a penalty-saving specialist between the sticks.

READ MORE: Fabrizio Romano discusses Arsenal move for unstoppable Aston Villa striker as Arteta tipped to get his own Erling Haaland