MANCHESTER UNITED have made a fresh approach for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez, according to reports.
The Red Devils are in the market for a new stopper ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline.
Altay Bayindir has struggled through United’s Premier League matches this season thus far, while Andre Onana produced a shambolic performance in his side’s Carabao Cup exit at Grimsby.
According to transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano , Red Devils chiefs have made a new approach for Martinez .
The Argentine stopper, 32, appeared to wave goodbye to Villa fans at the end of last season, but a move has not yet materialised.
Martinez missed Villa’s Prem opener against Newcastle due to suspension, but was back between the sticks for their 1-0 loss at Brentford last time out.
The World Cup winner has four years remaining on his Villa contract, which was only signed 12 months ago.
But in June ESPN claimed that Martinez was “desperate” to move to Old Trafford and be United’s new No1.
The Red Devils subsequently had a loan bid rejected for the towering 6ft 5in stopper.
United chiefs are also chasing a deal for Antwerp stopper Senne Lammens .
The 20-time champions have been engaged in lengthy negotiations with the Belgian side over their keeper.
Lammens started Antwerp’s first four matches of the season, but was axed from their matchday squad last week amid transfer speculation.
Old Trafford legend Dwight Yorke believes that Martinez is the man for United.
The 53-year-old, who also played for Villa, told Jackpot City Casino : “Emi Martinez has a big personality, there’s no two ways about that.
“He’s won the World Cup, he’s one of the best at saving penalties, and he’s got character – he’s got everything.
“Ideally, I thought we were going to get him because at one stage it looked like he was dead certain to be going to United.
“He probably tried to force that move, but for some reason it didn’t materialise, which in my opinion is a bit of a disappointment.
“However, Villa is also a club that I’m very familiar with, so whether he stays at Villa, I think it’s a good move for him as well. But I’m sure United would love to have him.”
FORGOTTEN MAN
SunSport revealed last night that some members of Ruben Amorim ‘s squad want Tom Heaton to be given a go between the sticks.
There are United players that believe the 39-year-old has outperformed blundering Bayindir and Onana in training and deserves a chance.
Former academy graduate Heaton returned to United in 2021 following 11 years away, but has played just three times in four years.
The three-cap former England stopper was on the bench for the Red Devils’ defeats at Arsenal and Grimsby, but was not in their matchday squad as they squeezed past Burnley 3-2 on Saturday.
