Aston Villa Warned That They Can Lose Their Important Player In January: Why Should The Lions Plan A Replacement? | OneFootball

Aston Villa have quietly risen under Unai Emery’s guidance. They are keen on reshaping their squad. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s situation could soon push them into difficult territory. United are struggling for consistency and face a growing problem in goal. Ruben Amorim’s team has kept just one clean sheet this season, and it proves that their defence is still unstable.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke, speaking to Football Insider, said that Senne Lammens is a long-term project. His inexperience makes him an uncertain option for now. Amorim has therefore picked Altay Bayindir as his first choice after Andre Onana temporarily left the club.

However, Amorim might soon lose patience. The report added that United may bring in an experienced goalkeeper in January to restore assurance and calm in defence. Their scouts have already checked the names they shortlisted in the summer of 2025. One of them in the list is Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez, who nearly completed a move to Old Trafford before Lammens joined.

“Lammens is probably a long-term signing, still young and obviously a lot to prove still if he is to be a Man United number one in the future. Bayindir is number one right now for Amorim, and then Lammens is the number two after obviously letting Onana leave the club on loan.”

“They have got issues between the sticks and have kept just one clean sheet this season. If their goalkeeping issues persist it’s going to be something they look at in January and then in the summer as well.”

“Amorim is looking at an experienced goalkeeper to come in and make the spot his own to provide a bit of stability and confidence in the defence.”

This situation keeps developing. Amorim must balance his trust in young players with the need for stability if he wants to define United’s season. Pressure keeps building, and the defence demands strong leadership. So, the Portuguese manager now faces a crucial decision that could decide the future of his project.

Why Aston Villa Must Prepare for Life After Martinez?

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 05: Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa reacts after Lesley Ugochukwu of Burnley (not pictured) scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Burnley at Villa Park on October 05, 2025 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

If Manchester United chase Emiliano Martinez again, Aston Villa must prepare for a new chapter. The Argentine’s leadership and calmness have driven Villa’s progress under Emery. Football always forces managers to plan before change strikes. Martinez’s consistency and presence have built Villa’s defensive strength. Yet United’s interest will test the club’s resolve again. Emery has already shown that he values stability. After the recent game, he also talked about the leadership of John McGinn.

Meanwhile, Villa’s scouting team has probably started searching for potential replacements for Emi to avoid a last-minute scramble. With Bournemouth not ready to sell Aston Villa target Antoine Semenyo, Villa must adjust their transfer plans. They must protect their ambitions and stay realistic. It will hurt to lose the 33-year-old, but smart planning can turn that loss into another step forward for a club determined to keep growing.