Man United make Emiliano Martinez decision after £40m Aston Villa demand

Add as preferred source on Google

Manchester United have already held talks with Emiliano Martinez over a potential transfer and now club chiefs have made a final decision.

A new goalkeeper is on the shopping list for Manchester United this summer, especially after the injury to Andre Onana.

Not only is the 29-year-old at risk of missing the start of the season, but he will also be missed over the winter period when he participates in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Therefore, Ineos are scouring the market for a new shot-stopper and United submitted a loan offer for Emiliano Martinez this week.

Aston Villa immediately rejected the offer, but United are still keen on Martinez this summer if an opportunity arises.

Man United ready to walk away from Emiliano Martinez deal

Having already spent £130m on Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo this summer, Ineos are currently operating on a restricted budget.

That explains why United were exploring a loan option for Emiliano Martinez, but it seems Villa are holding out for a transfer fee.

According to The Athletic, United are “effectively ruling out a move for Martinez” because Villa will only sanction a permanent sale.

Previous reports indicate that Villa want £40m for Emiliano Martinez, which is a fee that United aren’t willing to pay.

Villa have shown interest in Alejandro Garnacho, which has led to whispers of a potential swap deal, but it seems more likely that United would prioritise Ollie Watkins over Martinez.

Ineos already have Emiliano Martinez alternative lined up

With a deal for Martinez currently off the cards, Ineos will be considering other goalkeeping targets.

United are expected to bid for Senne Lammens having done the groundwork on a possible summer deal.

The 23-year-old shot-stopper is admired by United’s recruitment team following his impressive breakthrough at Royal Antwerp.

Not only is he a younger option to Martinez, but Lammens is expected to cost around £17m, making him a much more affordable option for Ineos.

READ MORE: The three positions Man United want to improve this summer, with £68m and £20m stars as top targets

Lammens is ‘keen’ to join United, meaning a deal could happen quickly if the Red Devils make a reasonable offer.

The young Belgian goalkeeper could line up for United in the opening Premier League fixture of the season.