Aston Villa have held discussions with representatives of Toulouse goalkeeper Guillaume Restes as the Premier League club prepares for a potential departure of Emiliano Martinez. The 21-year-old France youth international has emerged as a serious target for Villa, who are actively seeking a successor to their Argentine number one.
Restes has attracted attention from several clubs after establishing himself as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in France. The shot-stopper, who came through Toulouse’s academy, is valued at £20 million by his boyhood club. Sources indicate that Toulouse are open to selling the player this summer as they look to balance their finances and comply with budgetary requirements.
Villa’s search for a new goalkeeper hinges on Martinez’s future. The club would prefer to retain the World Cup winner, but his departure remains possible should a suitable offer arrive. Restes is viewed as a long-term solution between the posts should Martinez leave Villa Park, though the Frenchman would face significant pressure following in the footsteps of one of the world’s top goalkeepers.
The Midlands club are not putting all their hopes on one target. Parma’s Zion Suzuki is also under consideration as Villa assess their options in the market. The Japanese international offers an alternative profile as Villa weigh up their next move in what promises to be a crucial transfer window for the club.
Toulouse are expected to sanction several departures this window. Centre-back Charlie Cresswell is attracting interest from Crystal Palace and Stade Rennais, and his sale could also help address the club’s financial requirements. However, Restes represents the most valuable asset among those potentially available, and his departure would generate the substantial funds required by the Ligue 1 side.
Any deal for Restes would see Villa invest significantly in a goalkeeper with limited senior experience but considerable potential. The Frenchman has represented his country at various youth levels and is considered ready for a step up to a more competitive league. Villa officials will need to decide whether to meet Toulouse’s valuation or pursue other targets as the transfer window progresses. The coming weeks will prove decisive in determining whether Restes makes the switch to English football.