Report: Villa, Brighton vying for Arsenal's £20M-rated 'keeper Martinez

Emiliano Martinez is reportedly not in Arsenal's matchday squad to face Fulham on Saturday while he's part of a two-way transfer battle.

Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion are pursuing the goalkeeper ahead of this weekend's start of the 2020-21 Premier League season, according to The Guardian's Nick Ames. Villa submitted a £15-million bid, but it's understood Brighton made an offer closer to the Gunners' £20-million valuation.

Martinez, 28, drew rave reviews for his performances while he deputized for Bernd Leno from June 20, when Arsenal's usual first-choice goalkeeper was injured at Brighton. Martinez's impressive outings in the latter part of the season, and his presence throughout the Gunners' victorious FA Cup run, have led the Argentine to demand No. 1 status. Before his breakthrough, he spent a decade as either the second or third choice, or away from the club on six separate loan spells.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been unwilling to offer regular starts to either Martinez or Leno. With Martinez's representatives and Arsenal far from an agreement during contract discussions, Ames believes Leno's rival looks certain to leave - perhaps as soon as next week.

Villa and Brighton would reportedly dwarf the salary Arsenal offered Martinez.