Aston Villa face transfer crisis ahead of Newcastle opener as Man United swoop

Eddie Howe will take his side to Villa Park for their opening fixture of the 2025-26 season

Aston Villa could be forced into major transfer action ahead of Newcastle United’s visit in August, with goalkeeper Emi Martinez set to move to Manchester United.

The Magpies will get their season under way against Unai Emery’s side at Villa Park on Saturday, August 16, with the 12.30pm kick-off shown live on TNT Sports.

However, Villa are facing a goalkeeper crisis ahead of the new season, with Martinez set to move to Old Trafford.

The 32-year-old has been indentified by Ruben Amorim as the man to replace Andre Onana between the posts, with the Cameroon goalkeeper free to leave the club.