Emiliano Martinez’s on-pitch tears and apparent goodbye following Aston Villa’s final home game of the season appeared to suggest a transfer was on the cards.
It was then reported in the Spanish media that Aston Villa had been somewhat taken aback by transfer claims, didn’t want to sell, and would only do so for a high price.
Aston Villa’s final game of the season was away to Manchester United, and Martinez was sent off in the first half, with the Red Devils going on to win the match 2-0. That meant no Champions League football for Aston Villa, something that in Argentina it’s believed may have encouraged him to stay.
TyC Sports, the biggest sports media outlet in Argentine, now report that Manchester United have the strongest interest in the World Cup winner. According to their report, Barcelona have also scouted the 32-year-old, although they appear to be going for Joan Garcia.
Manchester United are said to have made contact six months ago, but decided to stick with Andre Onana at the time. Such a deal would have been incredibly difficult in January for a number of reasons.
Aston Villa are expected to ask for a high price, although TyC don’t share any figures.
The goalkeeper is currently away with the Argentina national team, and when asked about a transfer earlier this week, he said: “I don’t know, I came here to play for the national team. That’s the only thing that matters to me right now.
“The market just opened, there’s still a long way to go.”