Whitwell confirms Man Utd will only sign star hailed as ‘best in the world’ on one condition | OneFootball

Manchester United have reportedly been working on signing Emiliano Martinez for quite some time now, but the deal hinges on one condition.

The controversial Argentinian keeper has been guarding Aston Villa’s goal since making the move from Arsenal in 2020. However, he seemingly bid his club supporters a tearful farewell on the final home fixture of the season against Spurs, suggesting his departure could be inevitable.

The 32-year-old has been linked with a transfer to the Saudi Pro League, but Man United have recently emerged as a potential destination. Martinez is said to be open to making the move to Old Trafford.

Man United keen to sign Emiliano Martinez

However, in the latest edition of The Athletic’s DealSheet, Laurie Whitwell revealed that United’s interest in Martinez wasn’t born overnight, as INEOS have been in touch with the player’s entourage since the turn of the year.

Nevertheless, the journalist insists that Man Utd can only make a move for the 2022 World Cup winner if they manage to offload Andre Onana.

The Cameroonian has been vastly disappointing in his first two campaigns at Old Trafford, developing a knack for committing costly blunders.

Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if the Red Devils can find the former Inter Milan goalkeeper a buyer who’s willing to fork out a suitable offer. After all, INEOS cannot afford to sell the 29-year-old on the low, having bought him for £47.5 million only two years ago, as they would risk registering a financial loss according to the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules.

Martinez to Man United depends on Onana

(Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

So while the Red Devils and Martinez are apparently keen to collaborate, the circumstances could sabotage the deal, much to the dismay of Man Utd supporters who are desperate to witness the arrival of a new goalkeeper.

While the Aston Villa star may not be everyone’s cup of tea, he remains a vastly experienced goalkeeper who performed admirably on the biggest stages. His compatriot Lionel Messi, perhaps subjectively, went on to hail him as the ‘best in the world’.