Manchester United could be on the verge of a significant change in their goalkeeping department this summer, with Emiliano Martinez heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford. The 32-year-old Argentina international, who played a vital role in his country’s 2022 World Cup triumph, is now reportedly attracting interest from major European clubs — and United appear to be right in the thick of it.

Since joining Aston Villa from Arsenal in 2020, Martinez has become an instrumental figure at Villa Park. His performances have not only helped stabilize the team but have also played a key role in their impressive Premier League campaign, which led to European qualification. After what appeared to be a heartfelt farewell to the Villa faithful following their final home fixture, speculation about his future has only intensified.

Those close to Martinez suggest he’s eyeing one more major move — ideally to a club competing at the highest level of European football. With Manchester United undergoing structural changes under Dan Ashworth and INEOS, and actively targeting leaders with a winning mentality, Martinez fits the profile of the kind of player they’re looking to bring in.

United’s current goalkeeping options are under scrutiny. André Onana, while finishing the season stronger than he started, has faced questions over his reliability and fit for the tactical setups under both Erik ten Hag and a potential new manager like Ruben Amorim. Meanwhile, Altay Bayındır has made almost no impact and could be sold, while veteran Tom Heaton is expected to either retire or move on.

Bringing Martinez into the fold could play out in one of two ways — either as a direct challenge to Onana that forces a higher level of performance or as a full-on replacement if the club decides to cash in on the Cameroonian, with reports of interest from Saudi Arabian clubs already circulating.

Financially, Aston Villa might be open to a sale, particularly due to Premier League financial sustainability rules and their plans to reshape the squad. The asking price for Martinez is expected to be in the region of £25–35 million, with other clubs such as Chelsea and Atletico Madrid also keeping tabs on the situation.

Ultimately, if United move forward with serious intent, signing Martinez could turn out to be a quietly pivotal transfer — one that injects much-needed leadership, top-level experience, and a winner’s mentality into a squad aiming to re-establish itself among Europe’s elite.