Manchester United have endured a dismal campaign, currently sitting 16th with just one match left to play and little hope of securing European football. The blame has been widespread, but much of the scrutiny has fallen on the goalkeepers. Both the under-fire André Onana and backup Altay Bayındır have failed to impress between the sticks. As a result, United’s top brass have turned their attention to Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínez.
According to DSports, both Manchester United and Barcelona have approached the World Cup-winning goalkeeper and presented their proposals in a bid to lure him away from Villa Park.
Manchester United have made a bid for Aston Villa star Emiliano Martinez amidst competition from Barcelona.
At 32, Emiliano Martínez might not fit the typical INEOS profile, but with lingering doubts over André Onana’s erratic form, Manchester United appear to be exploring the option of adding a reliable, experienced goalkeeper without spending excessively.
Martínez, a two-time winner of The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper award, looks set to depart Villa Park by the end of the month. Although he remains under contract until 2029, Aston Villa are expected to cash in on the World Cup winner and target a younger replacement.
Martínez eyes Champions League move as Summer exit from Villa nears
Following the recent match against Tottenham, Martínez was seen in tears, prompting Sky Sports to speculate that the emotional reaction could signal the end of his 211-game spell with the Birmingham-based club.
🗣️ "He'll be a big loss to them"
🗣️ "That does look like he was waving goodbye for sure"
Roy Keane and Jamie Redknapp on Emi Martinez waving to the Villa Park crowd with tears in his eyes 👋 pic.twitter.com/wNaMId6Cij
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 16, 2025
According to Transfermarkt, Emiliano Martínez holds a market value of €25 million (£21m), but Aston Villa are likely to demand a higher fee as they aim to meet PSR requirements.
In a twist of transfer speculation, one of the names mentioned as a potential replacement at Villa Park is Espanyol’s Joan Garcia — a keeper who has also drawn interest from Manchester United.
Martínez is believed to be targeting Champions League football next season, which would rule out a move to Saudi Arabia but could make United an appealing destination if they win the Europa League final on Wednesday.
If United do secure the Argentine’s signature, it could raise questions about André Onana’s future at Old Trafford — whether the Cameroonian would be sold or face competition for the number one spot.
¡EL DIBU: EN LA MIRA DE DOS GIGANTES! 🔥
🧤 Emiliano Martínez tiene ofertas de Manchester United y Barcelona para dejar Aston Villa.
¿En qué equipo crees que continuará su carrera? 🤔
ℹ️ @fczyz
📷 AVFC pic.twitter.com/fiM3RHgjvH
— DSPORTS (@DSports) May 18, 2025
More Manchester United News
Next Sunday, Manchester United will meet with Emiliano Martínez, and Aston Villa for their last Premier League game. To acquire a goalkeeper of Martínez’s ability would be a huge boost for the Red Devils. His confidence can borderline arrogance, but there are no two ways about it, he is up there with the best penalty-stoppers in the world. While his distribution may raise a few eyebrows, his shot-stopping and mentality in big games may provide United a nice upgrade in goal.