Manchester United have taken a major step forward in the race to sign Aston Villa’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano “Emi” Martinez, according to reports emerging from Argentina. The 31-year-old shot-stopper, widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League, has reportedly caught the attention of several top European clubs. However, United appear to be the first to act decisively, having opened formal discussions with Aston Villa regarding a potential summer transfer deal.
Despite Martinez still having four years left on his current contract with Villa Park, speculation about his future has gained traction following his emotional farewell-like behavior during Villa’s final home fixture of the 2024/25 season. The Argentine international, who played a pivotal role in Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph, is understood to be contemplating a new challenge away from the Midlands club this summer.
United Leapfrog Rivals in the Emi Martinez Transfer Saga
As the summer transfer window heats up, Manchester United have reportedly become the first club to make an official approach for Martinez. According to Ole, a reputable Argentinian outlet, the Red Devils have overtaken major European sides such as Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, and Turkish giants Galatasaray—three clubs previously rumored to be interested in the Villa keeper.
The move is being spearheaded by INEOS, the new decision-making force behind United’s football operations, who are seeking ways to reinforce the squad without reckless spending. Despite United’s publicly low prioritization of the goalkeeper position, especially after investing heavily in Cameroonian shot-stopper Andre Onana just last season, it appears that Martinez’s availability has changed the equation.
According to sources close to the club, while Onana is expected to remain the No.1 option heading into pre-season, the club’s executives are privately concerned about his inconsistencies and high-profile errors in key matches throughout the 2024/25 campaign. This internal debate may have opened the door to a potential change in the goalkeeping department.
A Bargain or a Battle? INEOS Chase Discount in £34 Million Deal
Martinez’s price tag is believed to be set around £34 million, a figure that Villa are reportedly firm on. However, INEOS and the Manchester United transfer committee are reportedly hoping to negotiate a discounted deal. Their rationale stems from Martinez’s apparent desire to leave and Villa’s need to balance financial fair play obligations after an ambitious year of spending under Unai Emery.
United are unlikely to meet the full asking price without negotiation, especially given the club’s limited transfer budget after already securing deals for Matheus Cunha and closing in on Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. Yet Martinez’s pedigree, Premier League experience, and leadership qualities make him an attractive proposition as United look to steady their backline and inject more reliability between the posts.
The potential acquisition of Emi Martinez could be viewed as a statement of intent by the club. It would mark a shift toward prioritizing proven, mature players in key positions—an approach INEOS is believed to favor as they restructure Manchester United for long-term success.
What Martinez Brings to Old Trafford
Should United succeed in luring Martinez to Old Trafford, they would be acquiring a goalkeeper with a resume few can match. From his heroics in the World Cup final against France to his consistent performances in the Premier League, Martinez brings experience, composure, and confidence—attributes that have sometimes been lacking at United in recent years.
His commanding presence in the box, excellent shot-stopping ability, and vocal leadership could provide much-needed assurance to a defense that has struggled with injuries and lapses in concentration. At 31, he still has several prime years ahead of him, and his high footballing IQ would allow for a smooth transition into Erik ten Hag’s system.
A Summer of Change at United
With INEOS at the helm, Manchester United’s summer transfer strategy is being approached with renewed discipline and strategic thinking. Rather than chasing high-profile names for the sake of marketing, the focus has shifted to addressing the club’s most glaring weaknesses.
Although goalkeeper was not initially listed as a top priority, the opportunity to sign a player of Martinez’s caliber—especially ahead of rivals like Barcelona and Atletico Madrid—may prove too tempting to pass up. The fact that United are the only club to have made significant progress in negotiations with Villa puts them in a strong position to close the deal.
Still, hurdles remain. Villa’s valuation and United’s financial discipline could lead to a drawn-out negotiation process. But should INEOS manage to strike a favorable deal, the Red Devils would be bringing in one of the Premier League’s elite keepers and potentially solving
a long-standing issue at the back.
