Birmingham, July 22, 2025 – Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is reportedly open to a move to Manchester United this summer, even in the absence of UEFA Champions League football at Old Trafford. However, United are yet to make a formal decision or approach, with much depending on the future of current No.1 Andre Onana.
Sources close to the situation suggest that Martinez, one of the most decorated goalkeepers in international football over the past four years, is intrigued by the possibility of joining the Red Devils. While Manchester United’s original summer plan was to recruit a younger back-up—talks remain ongoing with Belgian stopper Senne Lammens—the chance to sign a high-profile name like Martinez could prompt a change in strategy.
The 32-year-old Argentine remains under contract with Villa until 2029, but Unai Emery’s side could be tempted to sell if the price is right. While Aston Villa are in a stronger financial position following the sale of their women’s team, they remain mindful of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). United have been informed that Villa’s valuation of Martinez is upwards of £30 million, potentially closer to £40 million, with that figure shaped by AC Milan’s £25 million asking price for Mike Maignan.
Martinez’s resume speaks for itself. Since earning his first senior cap for Argentina in 2021, he has played a pivotal role in the nation’s golden era, winning the Copa América in both 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 FIFA World Cup. In each of those three tournaments, he was named the best goalkeeper, claiming the Golden Glove award. His performances have also seen him win The Best FIFA Goalkeeper twice (2022, 2024) and the Yashin Trophy in 2023 and 2024.
Despite his growing trophy cabinet in international football, he couldn’t win any silverware with Villa. So, Martinez is thought to be eager for a new challenge. Manchester United, for their part, have not ruled out reinforcing their first-choice goalkeeper position but remain cautious as Onana has not been told he is surplus to requirements and continues to plan for the 2025/26 season at Old Trafford.
For now, discussions remain informal, with United aware of Martinez’s interest through communication on the player side. Should they choose to act, they may find a willing participant in both club and player—especially if Villa’s financial balancing act opens the door to negotiations.
With just weeks to go until the new season kicks off, Manchester United’s goalkeeping situation is one to watch. Whether they stick to their original plan or seize the opportunity to bring in a World Cup-winning keeper like Martinez could define their summer.