Man Utd poised for "formal" talks to sign £34m star in coming days, he wants to join the club - report

Manchester United could pursue a new goalkeeper during this summer’s transfer window.

The Red Devils had a disappointing 2024/25 season in the Premier League. They finished 15th in the standings with only 42 points to their name.

Andre Onana managed only nine clean sheets from 34 league appearances for United and was responsible for three errors directly leading to goals.

It has been reported that Onana is ‘expected‘ to stay at Old Trafford next season as he continues to enjoy a warm relationship with manager Ruben Amorim.

However, journalist Uriel Lugt has brought a potential twist. He claims that United are advancing in the pursuit of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

The Argentina international is ‘willing to go to’ the Red Devils. ‘Formal’ talks are expected to begin with the Villans over a possible transfer in the ‘next few days’.

Martinez deal could largely depend on Onana’s exit

United made a massive outlay of £47.2m to sign Onana from Inter Milan in the summer of 2023.

The Cameroon international has had some stand-out performances between the sticks but has also made eight errors leading to goals, the most by a Premier League player during this period.

There was speculation of Saudi Pro League interest earlier this year, but no offers have been made. In our view, United are unlikely to contemplate a change unless Onana heads for the exit door.

Martinez is reportedly waiting for the Red Devils after snubbing interest from Galatasaray. Still we are not convinced that he would be a reasonable upgrade on Onana for United next season.

The 32-year-old only saved 69 percent of his shots in the league last term. He was responsible for five errors leading to shots in the top flight, with one of those ending up in the net.

Martinez made a high-profile mistake at Old Trafford last month, which cost Villa a Champions League spot.

He got himself sent off for a reckless challenge on Rasmus Hojlund outside the box before the half-time interval.

Villa would have qualified for the Champions League with a draw, but ended up losing 2-0.

Martinez has shown signs of regression. United should pursue a younger shot-stopper this summer.

Villa want as much as £34m for the World Cup winner. United seem unlikely to meet the reported asking price.

Stats from Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .