Premier League heavyweights Manchester United are reportedly leading the race to sign Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez this summer.
Martinez, who won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022, has been heavily linked with a move away from Villa Park.
After Andre Onana’s unconvincing performances last season, Man Utd may try to sign Martinez from their Premier League rivals.
Man Utd Leading the Race for Aston Villa Goalkeeper Emi Martinez; Could Sign Him After Bryan Mbeumo
After enduring an embarrassing 2024/25 season, Man Utd have been highly active in the transfer market this summer. They kicked off by signing Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £62.5 million. According to reports, they are currently pushing to sign Brentford attacker Bryan Mbeumo. They have received a boost in the Mbeumo pursuit and are hoping to finalise the transfer in the coming days.
Man Utd are reportedly in the market for a goalkeeper, and according to GIVEMESPORT, Aston Villa star Emiliano Martinez is on their radar.
Emi Martinez is open to joining Man United this summer even without Champions League football, reports @FabrizioRomano 👀 pic.twitter.com/YbGTeGDeI3
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) June 19, 2025
The Argentina international, who has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in England, sparked transfer speculation in the final game of the 2024/25 season. After the final whistle, the 32-year-old broke down in tears, hinting towards a move away from Villa Park. As per the aforementioned report, Old Trafford is likely to be Martinez’s next destination.
Initially, LaLiga side Atletico Madrid looked to be leading the race for Martinez. However, on the back of Onana’s poor showings, including in the Europa League final, Man Utd have shown strong interest in signing him.
⛔️ Exclusive⛔️
Emi Martinez has told close family friends he will not be in the area next season has said his goodbyes to some within the “community” of family friends. #AVFC pic.twitter.com/NjrbsVq9JG— Aston Villa Updates (@avfcbreaking) June 24, 2025
Villa, who gave Martinez a new deal just a year ago, do not want to lose him. He is one of the most influential figures in the dressing room, and also has a high commercial value. They will only consider selling if Martinez pushes for a move. Man Utd must make a sizable offer to get Villa to agree to the transfer.
How Much Would Emi Martinez Cost?
Emi Martinez has a long-term contract with Aston Villa, running until June 30, 2029. Due to the length of the contract, Unai Emery’s side are in complete control of transfer negotiations.
So, although Martinez’s market value is only around £17 million, Man Utd may have to pay significantly more. According to reports, the former Arsenal goalkeeper could cost the club £30-40 million.
Additionally, Martinez is on a mega £7.5 million-a-year deal at Villa. So, Man Utd may have to sell Andre Onana, who is on a £10.4 million deal (including bonuses), to make room for another goalkeeper.
Martinez is not the only veteran goalkeeper on United’s radar, however. They have also been credited with an interest in Barcelona veteran Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Chelsea are also keeping close tabs on the German.