Aston Villa targets Joan García and Marcus Rashford appear Barcelona bound

Manchester City FC v Aston Villa FC - Premier League
Manchester City FC v Aston Villa FC - Premier League | Carl Recine/GettyImages

There are many reasons to not believe initial transfer rumblings. Case in point, Aston Villa are either in the market for everyone or everyone else is looking to poach every single AVFC player, depending on which columns are being read.

For some Villa supporters, however, Joan García was going to be a solid Emiliano Martínez replacement option. The potential of also negotiating a more friendly deal for the club also piqued interest among the fan base in terms of signing Marcus Rashford long-term. 

It looks at the moment, though, as if all momentum is heading toward both players joining Barcelona instead.

In terms of the keeper position, this would make Lucas Chevalier the new darling for those intent on a switch. For most, watching Martínez leave, particularly for Manchester United, would be the least desirable option.

Rashford, meanwhile, did what was asked of him under Unai Emery. The England international showed glimpses as to why many viewed him as one of the top up-and-coming players at one point. If all things were equal in terms of the finances, having Rashford back would be a universally approved move by Villa.

Either way, losing out on players to anyone that the club desires is not great. There is some consolation in it being Barça and not a team in the Premier League. What is needed next in the event that Villa truly are out of the running is different for both positions.

Missing out on Rashford would not be the end of the world. Certainly, Emery would enjoy keeping him. The Spaniard even mentioned how he would be willing to try a two-striker system with him and Ollie Watkins up top. Considering where Villa already have a lot of depth, though, not making any more big swings in the attacking positions would be fine and allow for those currently on the squad to have an increased run time.

Reading between the lines for Aston Villa

At keeper, this latest development is acceptable as long as Martínez stays. Considering how the GK market is starting to finalize itself, there are not too many more landing spots for the Argentina international. This would consequently make it that much more difficult for Villa to find a replacement if there is a last-second deal.

That would be an indicator in the event of a 'Here we go' post that involves García that, despite the best efforts of clubs to grab the world's No. 1, Martínez is indeed remaining at Villa.