World Cup winner is 'waiting for Man Utd move' after transfer talks begin
A World Cup winner is eyeing a summer transfer to Manchester United but could face disappointment.
Galatasaray have opened talks with Aston Villa over the potential signing of Emi Martinez, but the goalkeeper is waiting for Manchester United, according to reports. The Red Devils have been linked with a swoop for Martinez amid uncertainty surrounding Andre Onana's future beyond this summer.
The 32-year-old, who lifted the World Cup with Argentina in 2022, is widely expected to leave Villa Park for a new challenge in the coming months. And Galatasaray are said to have launched an audacious pursuit on the back of signing Leroy Sane on a free transfer. However, it's claimed that Martinez's preference is to remain in the Premier League with United.
According to Argentine outlet TyC Sports, Galatasaray have initiated contact with Villa to learn the conditions of any deal.
The Turkish champions want to replace Fernando Muslera, who has left the club, and will reportedly attempt to convince Martinez about a switch.
That said, Galatasaray's chances of luring Martinez to Istanbul have been described as very low due to rival interest, including from United.
TyC Sports previously reported that the Red Devils had begun talks with Villa about their interest in Martinez.
Onana failed to convince in his second season after joining from Inter Milan to replace David de Gea in 2023.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
But United are only expected to recruit a new goalkeeper if the Cameroon international departs, and there isn't a host of suitors.
Bolavip report that United are Martinez's preferred option, with Villa needing to sell players and balance the books after missing out on Champions League football.
Unai Emery's side would have secured back-to-back seasons in Europe's elite competition by winning at Old Trafford on the final day of the season.
United ran out 2-0 winners to finish 15th, and Martinez inadvertently aided the home side to victory by getting sent off in the first half.
Bolavip add that Martinez is waiting for United to formalise their interest with a concrete offer.
He isn't interested in a move to Turkey because of his desire to be playing at the highest level ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Martinez, one of the stars in Qatar in 2022, was recognised as the world's best goalkeeper with Yashin Trophy and FIFA Best awards in the two years that followed.
However, a United bid is unlikely to arrive until Onana finds a new club, which doesn't appear to be happening in the near future.
