Man United are set to step up their interest in Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez imminently, according to journalist Uriel Lugt.
Writing in his X account, Lugt claimed that “formal negotiations” to sign the Argentinian international could take place within the “next few days”.
Villa are open to offloading Martinez before the end of the month, as they look to raise funds to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules.
Most Read on ManUNews.com
However, it has been suggested that Unai Emery’s side will hold out for a fee in the region of £30m to £40m for the World Cup winner.
Romano has confirmed that Martinez wants to join Man United
Writing in his column for GiveMeSport, Fabrizio Romano said that the 32-year-old is “open to joining” the Red Devils despite the fact that Ruben Amorim’s side do not have Champions League football.
Martinez has reportedly already decided that he wants to leave Villa as he is keen for a new challenge.
There is also believed to be interest in the shot-stopper from teams in the Saudi Pro League but he has prioritised staying in Europe.
Onana’s future could prove pivotal
Any formal offer for Martinez is likely to be contingent on selling current number one Andre Onana. It was reported earlier this week that the Cameroon international had been given assurances about his future.
However, United are not against selling him. Like Martinez, there is tentative interest in the goalkeeper from Saudi Arabia, while Monaco are also said to be weighing up a potential move.
If Onana does depart over the coming days and weeks, the money would be reinvested into signing his replacement. At the moment, Martinez looks to be the primary target.
In other news, Man United are lining up a move for a striker with a £44m release clause