Manchester United have reportedly failed in a surprise attempt to sign Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez on loan, as they urgently search for a new shot-stopper ahead of the new Premier League season.

With Andre Onana set to miss the beginning of the campaign due to a torn hamstring, new United boss Ruben Amorim is facing a major dilemma between the sticks. The club is now scrambling to find a dependable short-term solution, and Martinez had emerged as their top target.

According to sources, the Red Devils held talks over the weekend to explore the possibility of bringing the Argentine World Cup winner to Old Trafford on loan. Martinez, 32, is no stranger to the Theatre of Dreams — he was famously sent off in Villa’s 2-0 defeat at Old Trafford on the final day of last season, a loss that saw Villa miss out on Champions League qualification.

Despite the urgency on United’s part, Aston Villa were left stunned by the request and immediately rejected the proposal. The idea of letting go of their vice-captain, especially on a temporary basis, was never a serious option. Martinez only signed a long-term contract last year, tying him to the club until 2029, and Villa see no advantage in letting him leave — particularly to a direct rival.

The goalkeeper, who earlier this summer turned down a move to Saudi Arabia, remains a central figure in Unai Emery’s plans. Villa officials have also made it clear that they’ve not received any formal approach from United, keeping their cards close to their chest.

United, meanwhile, have not commented publicly on the situation but are also said to be keeping tabs on Royal Antwerp’s Senne Lammens as another potential option. However, replacing Onana — whose influence has grown since his arrival from Inter Milan — won’t be easy.

As for Martinez, Villa reportedly value the experienced keeper at around £40 million, a fee that might be beyond United’s current reach. Whether the Red Devils would be willing — or able — to pay such a price remains uncertain.

With the new season fast approaching, and Onana’s absence confirmed, United’s goalkeeper hunt looks set to continue over the coming weeks. The question now is whether they can find the right man in time — and whether Aston Villa will continue to stand firm in protecting one of their most important players.