The agent of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has claimed the Argentina worldwide was “very shut” to becoming a member of Manchester United final summer season.
United wanted to signal a brand new stopper in 2023 after David de Gea left the membership upon the expiry of his contract, with supervisor Erik ten Hag in the end opting to pursue a reunion with Andre Onana, who dazzled underneath the Dutchman earlier than becoming a member of Inter.
Nevertheless, Martinez’s agent has insisted that United really wished to land the Villa goalkeeper earlier than Ten Hag’s transfer for Onana.
“In the present day he’s in among the finest initiatives” agent Gonzalo Goni advised ESPN. “Final yr he was very near Manchester United, the coach opted for Onana, as a result of he already knew him.
“However everybody at Manchester United later maintained that the perfect goalkeeper to win was Emiliano Martinez.”
Ten Hag has prolonged his contract with United however, after studies recommended the Pink Devils wished to restrict his affect over transfers, the Dutchman is known to retain his skill to veto any switch proposed by these in cost.
Presently underneath dialogue at United is a transfer for an additional former Ajax expertise, centre-back Matthijs de Ligt.
90min understands the Pink Devils had initially been cautious of the fee concerned in any deal for the Bayern Munich defender, solely to finally uncover that De Ligt may very well be obtainable for a relatively afforable worth.
Bayern are anticipated to demand a charge of round £45m for De Ligt, whereas one other goal, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, is valued at nearer to £70m.