Emi Martinez
Manchester United continue to be linked with a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez this summer.
Manchester United reportedly approached Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez about a potential transfer to Old Trafford six months ago.
Argentinian news outlet TyC Sports alleges the Old Trafford hierarchy made contact with the 32-year-old in January about a possible move, but then decided to stick with Andre Onana.
Despite their faith in Onana, his performances didn't pick up and it's understood that United are again keen to bring in a new goalkeeper this summer.
Martinez seemed to bid farewell to Villa fans in their last home match of the recent Premier League season, shedding tears as he acknowledged supporters with his family before heading to Old Trafford for the club's season finale.
United were surprise 2-0 winners of the game, Martinez receiving a straight red card during the match as Villa's hopes of securing a top-five finish and passage into next season's Champions League were dashed.
According to the Manchester Evening News, reports from Spain suggested that Martinez was on United's radar during the winter, a revelation that is said to have taken Villa chiefs by surprise, and it is likely that they will demand a hefty transfer fee for the player should they renew their interest this summer.
Recent reports from Argentina suggest Barcelona have also been monitoring Martinez, but appear set to continue their pursuit of Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who is also said to be a target for Villa as they contemplate life after their larger-than-life number one.
When asked earlier this week about his future while on international duty, Martinez 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 (transfer) market just opened, there's still a long way to go."
There is also said to be interest in him from more than one Saudi Pro League club, but it is thought his preference is to play in Europe for a Champions League club capable of adding domestic honours to the burgeoning array of national prizes he has won with Argentina.
From Villa's perspective, they are under pressure to ensure they do not incur a further breach of UEFA's squad cost rules as they wait to learn the size of their fine for exceeding the then 90% limit for 2023/24.
However, that will fall to 70% next term, and also though it is understood there have been no formal inquiries for Martinez and he is not being compelled to leave, he remains the highest earner of Villa's permanent players and his exit would help easy squad cost concerns.