Manchester United have reportedly initiated contact with Aston Villa to explore the possibility of signing Emiliano Martinez.
The club appears determined to strengthen its goalkeeping options this summer but is still undecided on whether to bring in a new first-choice keeper to replace the error-prone Andre Onana, or simply add a reliable backup to compete with Altay Bayindir, who hasn’t fully won the trust of the coaching staff.
In recent weeks, Martinez has been at the center of speculation linking him to a potential move to Old Trafford. During Aston Villa’s final home match of the season, he was seen emotionally interacting with fans, sparking exit rumors—though his wife later dismissed those claims.
Now, multiple sources have reported that the 2022 World Cup-winning goalkeeper is open to a move to Manchester United, which has seemingly encouraged Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS to consider making a formal move for him.
According to Diario Olé (via UtdXclusive), United have made an official approach to Aston Villa to discuss what a transfer might involve. However, having signed a contract extension earlier this season, Martinez is committed to the Birmingham-based club until June 2029. As a result, Villa holds strong negotiating power and would likely demand a hefty fee for the 32-year-old.
Though Martinez has earned high praise—including being called the best goalkeeper in the world by Lionel Messi—Manchester United may hesitate to invest heavily in a player of his age. There’s also the question of whether United truly want to replace Onana or just provide him with more competition.
Despite Onana’s inconsistencies last season, reports suggest United are not desperate to move him on. The club is said to be open to bringing in a new goalkeeper, but it’s not considered a top priority at this stage of the summer transfer window.
For now, there’s no verified evidence of a completed transfer or medical for Martinez. The talks remain in the exploratory phase, and Aston Villa has made no indication that they are prepared to let him go. As it stands, Manchester United’s pursuit of Martinez is still at an early stage, with no formal agreement in place.
