Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez is shaping up to be one of the key figures in this summer transfer window. After several standout seasons with Aston Villa, the Argentine goalkeeper bid farewell to the club and its fans at the end of last season. While Unai Emery side played a vital role in his development, both the club and the player agree that this summer is the right time to part ways.

Many Options, but the Red Devils Are Leading the Race

Interest in the World Cup-winning goalkeeper has been widespread, but his departure has proven more complicated than initially expected. Now, the situation appears to be nearing resolution, with Manchester United stepping forward as the club most determined to secure his signing.

According to journalist Gastón Edul, Martínez is a top priority for new United manager Rúben Amorim, and the Premier League giants have already opened formal talks with Aston Villa to negotiate the transfer of the 32-year-old keeper. Reports suggest that Martínez and United have had a verbal agreement in place for several weeks.

Aston Villa is seeking a fee of $54 million for the Argentine, though Manchester United believes there’s room to negotiate a slightly lower price. Notably, Martínez turned down multimillion-dollar offers from the Saudi Pro League, holding out for a chance to join a top-tier Premier League club.

Martínez Believes It’s Time for a New Challenge

Although currently training with Aston Villa in pre-season, both the player and the club are eager to resolve his future as soon as possible even though the European transfer window remains open until August 31.

At Rúben Amorim’s request, Manchester United has stepped up its pursuit of the goalkeeper in recent hours. The Portuguese coach considers Martínez a key piece of his long-term project at Old Trafford and sees him as the ideal figure to strengthen United’s defense.

Should the deal go through, Martínez would return to a major English club, having previously spent time at Arsenal, where he was never able to establish himself as a regular starter.

Who Will Replace Martínez at Aston Villa?

Amid growing rumors of Martínez departure, Aston Villa has already acted in the market, officially announcing the signing of Dutch goalkeeper Marco Bizot, who arrives after a solid season with Brest in France’s Ligue 1.

A New Challenge for “Dibu”

This potential move represents a golden opportunity for Emiliano Martínez to return to the European elite, prove that he belongs among the world’s top goalkeepers, and chase major titles with one of the most historic clubs in football. The chance to leave a lasting mark on the Premier League is now firmly within reach.