Aston Villa targeting former Fulham and goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli on a free transfer… but Dean Smith’s side face competition from Arsenal and Chelsea as they search for back-up to Emi Martinez
- Aston Villa are targeting ex-Fulham and England goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli
- The 29-year-old is available on a free transfer after leaving the Cottagers
- He spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough but is wanted by several clubs
- Arsenal and Chelsea are among the teams tracking the shot-stopper
Aston Villa have moved for former England international Marcus Bettinelli.
Dean Smith wants a new goalkeeper to compete with No 1 Emi Martinez and back-up Jed Steer ahead of next season.
The 29-year-old is available on a free transfer after his contract at Fulham expired last month.
Aston Villa have moved for ex-Fulham goalkeeper and England international Marcus Bettinel
He spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, where he played a key role for Neil Warnock’s team as they fell short of securing a play-off spot.
But he is being lined-up by a number of Premier League clubs ahead of next season as they look to strenghten their goalkeeping departments.
Chelsea and Arsenal are among the clubs also tracking Bettinelli.
Bettinelli was called into the England squad by Gareth Southgate during the 2017-2018 season following a string of excellent performances for Fulham – but the club’s relegation back into the Championship season effectively halted his international aspirations.
But he is now set for a return to the top-flight for the forthcoming season.
Villa boss Dean Smith (right) wants Bettinelli to compete with Emi Martinez and Jed Steer
