Andre Onana has struggled in goal for the Red Devils this season
Andre Onana has been one of the big disappointments of the season at Manchester United. He arrived with high expectations, hoping to continue with his form from Inter Milan and strengthen the goal, but his mistakes cost valuable points for United. Lapses in concentration, erratic movements and a general lack of confidence caused doubts early on. In key games, his performance faltered, fans lost confidence in him, and rumours of an exit are not surprising. In a team that needs stability at the back, Onana gave no guarantees. His situation seems untenable, especially if a tempting offer from Saudi Arabia appears.
Manchester United want to sign 32-year-old World Champion
As Pete O’Rourke revealed on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Manchester United have their sights set on signing Emiliano Martinez if they manage to sell Onana in the summer transfer window. The Argentine goalkeeper, currently at Aston Villa, is of interest to both Atletico Madrid and Chelsea. Although he has financially attractive proposals from Saudi Arabia, his desire is to stay in Europe and fight in high-level tournaments. According to information from Mick Brown, Martinez’s entourage are already looking for a major transfer. It is estimated that a figure between £35 and £40 million would be enough to close the deal.
Martinez would bring experience, character and leadership to a dressing room that often seems disconnected. He is a world champion and doesn’t shrink at the big moments. His profile fits what United need: someone who can impose himself in the box and offer security in front of goal. Unlike Onana, Martinez does not tend to take unnecessary risks with his feet.
Is Manchester United planning to sign 32-year-old World Champion Emiliano Martínez?
Is Manchester United planning to sign 32-year-old World Champion Emiliano Martínez?
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His more direct style could fit well into Ruben Amorim’s current scheme, especially if the team remains vulnerable defensively. However, there is a less obvious reading: Martinez plays best in low blocks, with the backline guarding him. At United, where a quick outlet and constant involvement in distribution are demanded, he could suffer.
Still, the Argentine’s mentality and performance in big games back him up. The club should try to sign him for no more than £35m. Going over that figure would be too much of a risk for a 32-year-old goalkeeper. If they can sell Onana for good money, Martinez represents an immediate and credible upgrade. It is not a ten-year solution, but it is a firm stop-gap to regain competitiveness. The key thing is not to get carried away by the urgency and analyse whether the Argentinian is suited to a more proactive style. Sometimes, the safe thing also works.