Manchester United are facing a goalkeeping dilemma as the transfer deadline approaches. They are considering a move for Aston Villa’s experienced Emiliano Martinez while also negotiating for young Belgian talent Senne Lammens.
Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a late transfer move for Aston Villa’s experienced goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline. The Reds have been actively seeking solutions to their ongoing goalkeeping challenges, with negotiations also underway for 23-year-old Belgian talent Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp.
Lammens, highly regarded in Belgium, has shown eagerness to join Manchester United and has missed Antwerp’s last two matches amid transfer speculation. Antwerp, meanwhile, face financial pressures due to an external loan, making a significant sale necessary. However, despite his promise, Lammens lacks the top-flight experience that Martinez brings. Martinez is a seasoned professional—a World Cup winner with Argentina and a two-time FIFA goalkeeper of the year—boasting 197 Premier League appearances.
United’s Goalkeeping Struggles Continue as Deadline Approaches
Following United’s narrow 3-2 win over Burnley, manager Ruben Amorim acknowledged the difficulties faced by the club’s goalkeepers, saying, “I think it is hard to be a Manchester United goalkeeper in this moment.” Current keepers Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana have both made costly errors this season, with Bayindir’s most recent mistake nearly costing the team their hard-fought victory—only an injury-time penalty from Bruno Fernandes saved them.
Interest in Lammens is not limited to United; Turkish giants Galatasaray are also tracking the young goalkeeper and could turn their attention to Bayindir or Onana if United decide to prioritize Martinez or another option. Sources within United emphasize that the club plans to sign at most one goalkeeper before the transfer window closes at 19:00 BST on Monday.
Martinez’s Future Remains Uncertain as Villa Hold Firm
Earlier in the summer, United explored the possibility of taking Martinez on loan, but Aston Villa were unwilling to let their 32-year-old shot-stopper go. Martinez, who seemed to bid farewell to Villa fans at last season’s close, recently played in the club’s defeat against Brentford, keeping his future uncertain as the transfer deadline looms.