Credit: Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports

Emiliano Martinez Transfer Update; Manchester United Learn Release Clause and It’s Not Good News

Martinez Open to Old Trafford Move As United Weigh Bid but Aston Villa Hold Firm.

Credit: Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports

Manchester United’s pursuit of Emiliano Martinez has taken a complicated turn. The club have intensified their efforts to sign the Aston Villa goalkeeper this summer. Initially, reports from Argentina suggested Martinez had a £21.6 million release clause in his contract.

That would have paved the way for a swift transfer. However, according to the Daily Mail, no such clause exists. As a result, United will now need to negotiate directly with Villa, who are reportedly valuing the Argentina international at around £40 million.

🚨 Manchester United have set their sights on Emiliano Martínez, who is valued by Aston Villa at £40M.

United are hoping to do a deal for closer to £33M.

(Source: La Nación) pic.twitter.com/bURX6viYd3
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 18, 2025

Martinez, who moved to Villa Park from Arsenal in 2020, has become one of the Premier League’s standout goalkeepers. The 32-year-old has made over 200 appearances for Villa, keeping 70 clean sheets. His accolades include winning the FIFA Best Men’s Goalkeeper award in both 2022 and 2024.

He also contributed hugely on Argentina’s World Cup and two Copa Americas title wins. While United are said to have readied a £33 million bid, Villa are under no pressure to sell and could hold out for their full asking price. Reports reveal that Martinez is ‘open to the transfer’. He views a move to Old Trafford as a ‘significant step in his club career.’

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Manchester United Goalkeeping Scenario Dilemma

United’s interest in Martinez comes amid growing uncertainty over Andre Onana’s role at the club. Onana endured a tough debut season following his move from Inter Milan and is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Though he’s expected to return for United’s pre-season tour in August, his performances have left manager Ruben Amorim exploring alternatives in goal. Despite earlier interest from AS Monaco, Onana reportedly wants to stay and fight for his place under Amorim.

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Backup keeper Altay Bayindir has also been linked to a potential exit. Hence, United’s goalkeeping department is in flux. Signing Martinez would bring elite competition but could also force Amorim into managing two high-profile stoppers vying for the number one spot.

Boss Amorim is continuing on his vision of a major squad rebuild following United’s disastrous 2024-25 campaign. However, the Martinez deal looks to be a priority. With little time left of the transfer window, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of both Martinez and the Red Devils’ goalkeeping scenario.

Andre Onana

Aston Villa

Emiliano Martinez

Manchester United

Premier League

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.