For the best part of a year the Argentine media were talking up an Aston Villa exit for Emi Martinez. Even before there were any links in the English media, Manchester United was reported as the likely destination in Argentina.
Indeed, it seemed clear that people close to the goalkeeper were pushing these claims. At one point it was claimed a move to Manchester United was already agreed. That may have been the case from the Aston Villa player’s perspective, but not between the clubs.
Whilst it’s since been made clear Ruben Amorim was keen, and spoke to Martinez, Manchester United wouldn’t pay up. Aston Villa rightly dismissed the idea of a loan and now the relationship is rebuilding.
Whether Manchester United return in January, with Ruben Amorim said to want an experienced goalkeeper, remains to be seen.
Friday’s edition of Argentina’s Ole reports a source from the player’s camp has spoken to them about his fitness. The 33-year-old missed the victory over Bologna this week.
The source said Martinez picked up a knock again Sunderland and has been nursing it: “They preferred to protect him.”
As far as the player’s camp is concerned he’ll be fit to start against Fulham.