Report: Aston Villa Forced to Sell Ahead of Cut-Off | OneFootball

Aston Villa’s PSR Puzzle: Big-Name Exit Looms Ahead of June Deadline

As the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) deadline of June 30 rapidly approaches, Aston Villa are firmly in the spotlight. According to a recent report by GiveMeSport, Unai Emery’s side are actively working on offloading at least one key player before the financial year closes. This isn’t speculation – it’s understood that intermediaries have already been briefed: Villa must sell.

Bailey & Martinez Top Exit List

Two names dominate the conversation – Leon Bailey and Emiliano Martinez. The former has already seen his representatives initiate talks with clubs in the Saudi Pro League, and a £25 million move to newcomers Neom FC appears to be in the pipeline.

Bailey, currently on international duty with Jamaica at the Gold Cup, could soon become one of several Premier League stars lured by the financial power of the Saudi game. Notably, “Leon Bailey became only the second Jamaican to score in the Champions League when he netted in March 2025.” His form has clearly kept him on the radar of overseas clubs, and with Villa needing cash, this transfer seems increasingly likely.

Photo: IMAGO

Martinez, meanwhile, presents a more complex situation. The World Cup-winning goalkeeper caused confusion after showing emotion in front of the Holte End following the final home game of the season. GiveMeSport reported that “confusion surrounded his tears… with president of football operations, Monchi, expressing surprise afterwards.”

Martinez Attracts Big Clubs – But Will They Buy?

Despite rumours, a firm offer for Martinez hasn’t emerged. Manchester United remain the most likely Premier League destination, especially if they choose to part ways with Andre Onana. However, new boss Ruben Amorim has yet to make a decision on his No.1, leaving Villa in limbo.

Atletico Madrid have also been linked, but with Jan Oblak still on the books, a £40 million bid seems far-fetched. That leaves the Saudi Pro League once again as the most financially plausible option. Martinez could potentially double his £7.5m annual salary in the Middle East, a move that could suit both player and club if no elite European side makes a serious offer.

Villa’s Tightrope Act

Villa’s situation is delicate. Emery’s team are keen to strengthen this summer, especially with European football returning to Villa Park. But to comply with PSR and fund new additions, sacrifices must be made.

This pressure leaves the club negotiating from a position of weakness – something rival clubs are undoubtedly aware of. Whether it’s Bailey, Martinez, or another high-profile name, Villa’s summer window could start with a painful goodbye.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a fan’s perspective, there’s a mixed bag of emotions about this developing story. On one hand, it’s disappointing to see our club in a position where it has to sell, especially after such a successful campaign. But we’ve seen this before across the league – PSR doesn’t discriminate, and even the most well-run clubs need to be pragmatic.

Leon Bailey, while exciting in flashes, has been inconsistent. If the club can recoup £25m from a Saudi move, many Villa fans would see that as smart business, especially if reinvested wisely.

Emi Martinez is a trickier subject. He’s a fan favourite, World Cup winner, and still arguably one of the best goalkeepers in Europe. But if no elite club is willing to pay top dollar, and Saudi clubs are offering life-changing money, Villa may reluctantly part ways. It’s vital, though, that any exit is on our terms – not dictated by desperation to meet financial rules.

There’s trust in Unai Emery and Monchi to navigate this wisely. If it means one or two tough exits but a stronger, more sustainable squad for Europe, most fans will understand – even if it stings initially.