(Credit: Imago)

Aston Villa name Emi Martinez price as Man United approach laughed off

Alex is a lifelong Sunderland supporter who's been reporting on Mackem News since April 2025. Indeed, he started working for Breaking Media in April and has since graduated from St Mary's University as a NCTJ Gold Standard-accredited journalist, having completed his Master's degree in Sports Journalism. Alex previously worked for Football League World and has featured on the Roker Report, providing his opinion on all things Sunderland. While getting to the games is tricky, given his job, one of the highlights of his life was watching (and crying) as the Black Cats defeated Sheffield United at Wembley Stadium last season.

Published on:

22 Jul 2025, 2:00 am

Emi Martinez was expected by many to leave Aston Villa this summer after his emotional Villa Park farewell.

However, while there has been plenty of speculation around his future, nothing of note had transpired until now.

Martinez has been linked with a move to Manchester United and Saudi Arabia, although the latter does not seem to appeal.

Now, there has been significant news regarding the Red Devils, but their approach has not been met warmly by the Villans.

The Argentine could still leave this summer (Credit: Imago)

Man United make Aston Villa approach for Martinez

Andre Onana's future at Old Trafford is uncertain, with Ruben Amorim needing an adequate number one for the new season.

The news of the Cameroonian's injury only intensified the noise around the World Cup winner's future, as he is set to miss the entirety of pre-season.

Furthermore, Aston Villa have signed goalkeeper Marco Bizot, which could indicate that the West Midlands club is preparing for Martinez's departure.

The 32-year-old has been at Villa Park for five years since signing from Arsenal and has made over 200 appearances for the Premier League outfit.

Apperances	Goals conceded	Clean sheets
212	256	70

Martinez's Aston Villa statistics

United held discussions over the weekend about signing Martinez, according to the Daily Mail (21 July).

They report that the prospect of a loan was put forward to Villa officials, but it was met with incredulity and rebuffed immediately.

However, the West Midlands club have stressed they have had no contact and value him at around £40million.

Will United make another move for Martinez? (Credit: Imago)

Villa in strong selling position for Martinez

United often have to do things the hard way to sign the players they want, as has been proved by the Bryan Mbeumo saga.

Given the Old Trafford club's immense finances, selling clubs can always drive a higher price, although Jim Ratcliffe is trying to change that.

Martinez has a contract that runs until 2029, meaning the 32-year-old's value should not fluctuate too much if he stays.

While £40million is a lot for a goalkeeper of his age, shot-stoppers have a long shelf life, and he would be an upgrade on Onana.

Now, it is up to United and Amorim to decide how much they really want Martinez with plenty of time left in the transfer window.

If you want the world's best, you have to pay money that matches that.

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Emi Martinez

Ruben Amorim