Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has acknowledged that striker Ollie Watkins could be the next high-profile departure from the club this summer, while also revealing that goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez has formally requested a transfer.

The admissions mark a potentially turbulent window for Aston Villa, who already saw significant squad changes heading into the new season. Emery's candour signals that the club may be bracing for further disruption at key positions.

Martínez, who has been one of Aston Villa's most celebrated figures since his World Cup-winning performances with Argentina, has made his desire to leave clear to the club's hierarchy. His request puts Aston Villa in the difficult position of replacing a goalkeeper of his calibre.

Watkins, meanwhile, has been among the most consistent strikers in England in recent seasons — a player whose goals have been central to Aston Villa's push for European competition. Emery stopped short of confirming a deal for the England international, but his comments suggest a move is a genuine possibility.

The prospect of losing both Martínez and Watkins in the same summer would represent a significant blow to Aston Villa's ambitions. The club will need to act decisively in the transfer market if they are to maintain the momentum built under Emery in recent campaigns.