Manchester United remain on the hunt for a reliable replacement for Andre Onana, but one prime target will likely not be moving to Old Trafford this summer.
The United No.1 suffered an injury which will keep him out for the whole of the club’s pre-season, and after his disappointing displays last season, Ruben Amorim continues to be on the hunt for a replacement.
But due to the Cameroonian’s injury, a departure seems unlikely with Saudi Pro League sides staying away from submitting a concrete offer.
The Red Devils were eyeing Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa should they manage to sell the Cameroon international.
Emiliano Martinez one of United’s targets
Without a sale, United would find it hard to fund a move with recent reports stating the Argentine would only be sold for €50 million, much more than his secret release clause of €25 million.
With a loan deal out of the question and due to Birmingham side’s asking price, the 20-time English league champions have cooled their interest in the World Cup winner.
The Argentina international is keen to leave, and despite turning down the overtures of teams in the Middle-East earlier in the window, he is now considering moving there as per Argentine outlet Clarin.
National team hoss Lionel Scaloni would much prefer his team’s top goalie to play at the highest level, which United represents, rather than in the Saudi Pro League.
“When all the roads for Emiliano Dibu Martínez led to Manchester United, the negotiations cooled and a destination appeared that could mean a headache for Lionel Scaloni.
Interest on the wane
“Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez’s situation is raising alarm bells in Argentina. With United’s situation stalled just a year before the 2026 World Cup, the possibility of the goalkeeper leaving the Premier League and deciding to accept a tempting offer he received from Saudi Arabia is beginning to be floated.
“Although Manchester United had him on their radar as a possible replacement for André Onana, negotiations stalled due to Aston Villa’s high asking price of €50 million.
“In addition to the financial strength of Arab football, a change in the regulations reinforces the possibility of Dibu’s arrival, as the quota for foreign players would be increased from eight to ten.”
This all but rules out an exit for Onana. But given Amorim’s unhappiness with the No.1, United are likely to bring in a strong backup.
With Altay Bayindir likely to be sold, Senne Lammens seems likely to be brought in. Hopefully, he can challenge the Cameroonian and bring out his A-game. Or secure top billing for himself.
Feature image Richard Heathcote via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
