Man Utd in talks with Villa over Emiliano Martinez and loan deal made for keeper

Manchester United are pursuing goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and have agreed a loan deal for Radek Vitek to join Bristol City.

The 21-year-old is a product of the club’s academy and has regularly been afforded chances to train with the first team at Carrington. But he has now signed a new deal and been loaned out for a season.

It comes with uncertainty over the future of Andre Onana and United are in talks with Aston Villa regarding a potential transfer for the Argentina international, who is widely regarded as one of the world's top goalkeepers after his success at both club and international level.

Martinez, who won the FA Cup with Arsenal and the World Cup (2022) as well as two Copa Americas (2021, 2024) with Argentina, is considered "open to the transfer" and sees a move to Old Trafford as an important step in his career.

While Villa reportedly value Martinez at around £40million, Manchester United are preparing a bid in the region of £33million. Martinez’s contract runs until June 2029, giving Villa a strong negotiating position.

United’s desire to sign a new goalkeeper comes after a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, with doubts over Onana’s reliability.

Ruben Amorim is keen to strengthen his squad, and Martinez is said to be an "express request" by the Portuguese coach.

However, reports also suggest United are not desperate to offload Onana, and Villa replacements for Martinez are being scouted in anticipation of a potential deal.

Multiple South American sources suggest that terms are close and Martinez is preparing for the move, with his friend and national teammate Lisandro Martínez already at United.

Ultimately, whether the transfer is finalized will depend on negotiations regarding the fee and Villa's willingness to let Martinez go.

Meanwhile, on completing his move to Ashton Gate, Vítek, reported The Mirror, said: “I’m really excited, for me the Championship is a new level. More games is a big positive for me and I can’t wait to get to know all the players and staff better.”