Man United the favourites to sign ‘best goalkeeper in the world’ – Report | OneFootball

Manchester United have been identified as the most keen suitor in the race for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

The Red Devils have had to live with Andre Onana’s repeated blunders over the past couple of campaigns. At this stage, most fans firmly believe that signing a new goalkeeper is a necessity, at least if the management plans to restore the club to its rightful place among the elite, as the Cameroonian’s shaky displays have been a thorn in the side.

In recent months, United have been linked with several profiles for the role, including Torino’s Vanja Miliinkovic-Savic, Burnley’s James Trafford and Brighton’s Bart Vergruggen.

More recent reports claimed that Man Utd will launch an audacious attempt to sway PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, but these rumours were swiftly shot down.

Nevertheless, Martinez might represent a more realistic profile, especially with his future at Aston Villa no longer certain. The 32-year-old seemingly bid the fans at Villa Park farewell on the last home match of the season.

United seriously interested in Emiliano Martinez

(Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

According to TyC, Man United has emerged as the Argentine’s most serious suitor. The source claims that the Premier League giants had already tried to acquire his services last January following Ruben Amorim’s arrival.

The Argentine source also reveals that Barcelona have enquired about Martinez, but Man Utd remains his keenest admirer, although no offer has been presented yet.

Nevertheless, luring the World Cup winner away from Birmingham won’t be easy, as Aston Villa are asking for a substantial transfer fee to part ways with the custodian whom they have under contract until 2029.

Man United must splash the cash for Martinez

Martinez is an Arsenal youth product who left North London in search of a more prominent role and found his niche at Villa Park.

He has been representing the Villains since 2020. This season, he registered 16 clean sheets in 53 appearances for the club, while conceding 61 goals.

The shot-stopper’s fame hit its peak when he helped Argentina clinch the 2022 World Cup with memorable saves, including a jaw-dropping stop in the final to deny Randal Kolo Muani late in extra time. Lionel Messi once hailed him as the best goalkeeper in the world.