BREAKING NEWS: “World-Class” Goalkeeper Reportedly Waiting for Manchester United Move
An exciting transfer update has surfaced, claiming that a “world-class” player is eagerly awaiting Manchester United’s approach during this summer’s transfer window.
Although Manchester United continue to prioritize signing a new striker, they are now also being linked with strengthening their goalkeeper position.
Last season saw the Red Devils struggle across the pitch, ultimately finishing a disappointing 15th in the Premier League table. One of their most glaring weaknesses was the absence of a consistent, top-level striker.
This has led them to explore several high-profile forward options, with Sporting CP’s prolific Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres emerging as a serious candidate.
Reports suggest United have even initiated contact with Gyokeres’ representatives to discuss a potential transfer.
Gyokeres has enjoyed an outstanding run at Sporting, scoring a staggering 68 goals over the past two Primeira Liga seasons, and adding 11 more in European competitions.
Other strikers, such as Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt and Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace, are also reportedly under consideration as United assess their options ahead of the new campaign.
While the club continues its search for firepower up front, a surprising development has emerged concerning their goalkeeping department.
Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez, the 32-year-old Argentine World Cup-winning goalkeeper currently at Aston Villa, is reportedly hoping for a move to Old Trafford.
Despite interest from Galatasaray, Saudi Arabian clubs, and others, Martínez is said to prefer joining Manchester United, even though they cannot offer him Champions League football next season.
Earning £150,000 per week at Villa, Martínez could prove to be a shrewd addition for United.
His arrival would come at a time when serious questions have been raised about the long-term suitability of Andre Onana.
While Onana showed improvement in the latter part of the season, his high-profile mistakes in both domestic and European competitions have left the club’s leadership considering alternatives.
In contrast, Martínez has firmly established himself among the world’s elite goalkeepers, recently earning the 2024 FIFA Best Men’s Goalkeeper award.
His achievements include outshining top names like Donnarumma, Ederson, Maignan, and Lunin.
Martínez’s exceptional performances for Argentina, particularly his decisive penalty shootout saves during the 2022 World Cup final, have only added to his reputation.
Prominent figures like Gary Neville have labeled him “world-class,” while Nuno Espirito Santo praised his stunning save against Nottingham Forest last season.
Despite Aston Villa’s qualification for next season’s Champions League, Martínez appears motivated to take on a fresh challenge at Manchester United.
The club’s rich history, ongoing rebuild under INEOS, and promise of a new project may all be factors influencing his preference.
If United pursue Martínez, Villa will likely demand a significant transfer fee due to the player’s contract running until 2027.
The estimated price tag is expected to be in the region of £35 million to £45 million.
Additionally, United would need to offload one of their current goalkeepers — either Onana or Dean Henderson — to accommodate Martínez financially and within the squad.
At this point, INEOS faces a critical decision: whether to prioritize strengthening the goalkeeping department or focus their resources on other key areas, such as acquiring a striker or midfielder.
While Martínez is prepared and waiting for United’s call, the final move will depend on several factors, including budget constraints, squad restructuring, and Villa’s willingness to negotiate with a domestic rival.
