MANCHESTER UNITED came close to signing Aston Villa star Emiliano Martinez before ultimately opting for Andre Onana last year, it’s been claimed.
Martinez, 31, has been outstanding for Unai Emery’s side between the sticks ever since his arrival from Arsenal in 2020.
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The goalkeeper has been so impressive at Villa Park that United seriously considered bringing him to Old Trafford to replace the legendary David de Gea, who left after the end of his contract in 2023.
That is according to the Argentina international’s agent Gonzalo Goni, who revealed the only reason that transfer never took place was the Red Devils’ manager Erik ten Hag.
Ten Hag blocked that move and instead opted for Onana, who enjoyed a stunning season with Inter Milan, because they worked together at Ajax.
Goni told ESPN Futbol 12: “David de Gea left the Red Devils at the end of 2022/23 season, forcing the Red Devils to look for a new stopper.
“Last year he was very close to Manchester United, the coach chose Onana, because he already knew him.
“But everyone at Manchester United later maintained that the ideal goalkeeper to win was Emiliano Martínez.”
Martinez rose to prominence after the 2022 World Cup when he won the title in Qatar with Argentina.
The shot-stopper was also awarded with the Golden Glove following his incredible performances in goal for the Albiceleste.
Onana, on the other hand, struggled during his maiden campaign at United.
The Cameroon international committed a raft of errors but slowly started to inspire confidence towards the end of the campaign.
Martinez will be looking for more success this coming season after Villa qualified for the Champions League for the first time in the club’s history.
