Manchester United have been heavily linked with a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez in the summer transfer window
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez(Image: PA)
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has kept the football world on their toes since the final home match of the season and has been heavily linked with a transfer to Manchester United.
Following the victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Villa Park, a clearly emotional Martinez bid farewell to the home supporters. This was seen by many as a sign that he could be moving on to pastures new during the summer transfer window.
Since then United, who have had a turbulent relationship with Andre Onana this season, have reportedly been making enquiries about the 32-year-old goalkeeper. With this is mind, MEN Sport has taken a closer look at what we know about Martinez's transfer situation.
Martinez statement on the transfer window
After joining up with the Argentinian national team this month, Martinez was asked about his future and whether it would be at Villa Park or not. A clearly guarded Martinez replied: "My future? I don’t know.
"I’m here to play for the national team, and that’s all I care about right now. Do I want to change clubs? The transfer market has just opened, so there’s still a lot to happen."
United transfer approach
In an explosive update from TyC Sports, the Argentinian media outlet reported that United were leading the way for Martinez. Not only that, it was claimed that the Reds made an approach for the goalkeeper in the January transfer window.
It was decided at that time that a move would not be viable but United have now decided to return to the race for his signature. The article also adds that Barcelona have sounded out a move for Martinez and they admit a deal could be tough due to Aston Villa's asking price.
Martinez contract status
The reason why Villa's asking price could be so high is that Martinez remains firmly under contract at Villa Park. The Argentine has four years remaining on his current deal and thus Unai Emery's men can place whichever price tag they want on the shot stopper.
For United, this is an issue if they want to sign him soon as they need to green light exits before spending big.
Emiliano Martinez leaves the field after being sent off against Manchester United
Emiliano Martinez leaves the field after being sent off against Manchester United
Emery's view
Coincidentally, Martinez's potential last match in Villa colours came against United at Old Trafford. The goalkeeper did not cover himself in glory though as he charged into Rasmus Hojlund to earn himself a straight red card.
Prior to that moment of madness, Martinez's future was brought up in Emery's pre-match interview. When asked if that game would be his last for the club, the Villa manager simply replied: "No way."
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