PL rival hints at Manchester United target’s fate this summer

Asked whether the United game will be Martinez’s last for the Lions, Emery replied sharply: “No way!” The TNT Sports reporter followed up by saying: “Definitely not, he’s staying at the club?” Emery then added bluntly: “See you later.”

Although he responded with a negative and withdrew without elaborating, the scene left more questions than answers. Meanwhile, the Manchester Evening News has reported United’s growing interest in the Argentine, suggesting that Old Trafford could be his next destination. The context is no coincidence: André Onana’s performances have raised doubts throughout the season.

The thought of a transfer of Emiliano Martinez to Manchester United is not far-fetched. Onana’s season has been marked by occasional mistakes that cost important points. Although his the ability to be good with the ball at his feet, his inconsistency between the sticks has caused nervousness in defence. The arrival of a goalkeeper like Martinez, with international experience and a strong temperament, could provide the stability United have lost since the departure of David de Gea. Moreover, the Argentine’s personality would fit in with the demands of the Old Trafford fans, who have shown impatience with Onana since his arrival.

However, it is not all that simple. Martinez is under contract at Aston Villa, and his role in the club’s European qualification is no small matter. His relationship with Emery, though strained at times, has been functional in sporting terms. It is also true that the farewell gesture can be read as an emotion of the moment, without necessarily implying a transfer. On the other hand, there is the economic factor to consider: Saudi clubs offer figures difficult to match for any European team, including United.

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From this point of view, a move to the Middle East would seem more logical if the criterion is financial. Even so, Martinez’s competitive ambition and his age of 32 could tip the balance towards a club like United, which still competes in the elite of European football. If Amorim remains in the dugout and the project remains coherent, the Argentine could be seduced by the challenge.

Martinez is not a goalkeeper who can tolerate being an understudy, nor one who is content with lesser leagues in terms of competitiveness. If United act quickly, with clarity in their approach and sporting commitment, his signing could materialise. If not, Villa Park could remain his home, at least for another season.