Aston Villa are reportedly considering a move to sign Arsenal defender Rob Holding as a replacement for Diego Carlos after the Brazilian suffered a serious ankle injury – and Emi Martinez is clearly a big fan of the Gunners centre-back.
Martinez played alongside Holding for four years after the defender joined Arsenal from Bolton in 2016. While Martinez rarely got a chance in the starting XI, the two were in Arsenal’s squad together before Martinez left in 2020.
The Argentine goalkeeper has perhaps, shown what Holding can achieve. Warming the bench, he moved to Aston Villa and is now considered one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. Holding continues to warm that bench.
The return of William Saliba from a brilliant loan at Marseille has made him fourth choice. He is also behind Ben White and Gabriel. With Carlos, a new, marquee signing facing nine months on the sidelines, a replacement is needed.
Reports claim that Villa are considering a move for either free agent Jason Denayer, or Arsenal’s £38,000-a-week man Holding. Responding to an Instagram post on Holding’s page, Martinez branded Holding “rock solid as always”.
Villa considering Rob Holding: Emi Martinez a big fan of Arsenal man
As aforementioned, Martinez has shown the path for Holding. Would the centre-back really want to remain at The Emirates this summer – and continue to act as back-up? He is only going to get game in the cup competitions.
Of course, Arsenal are in the Europa League and that is likely to see Holding play most of his games. That is, at least the group games. Mikel Arteta might choose to play a stronger side as the tournament grows older.
But Martinez has shown that if you leave Arsenal for a club like Villa, then you can go on to bigger things. You can become a regular in the Premier League. Holding has the chance to do that and should grab it with both hands.
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