Manchester United are once again being linked with a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez as the club begins to consider its options ahead of the January transfer window. Reports suggest that while the Red Devils are prepared to give recent signing Senne Lammens the chance to prove himself, the need for experience in such a key position means Martinez could still emerge as a serious target.
The summer brought major changes to United’s goalkeeping department. Andre Onana, who arrived just a year ago amid great expectation, has already departed Old Trafford after sealing a switch to Turkish side Trabzonspor. His exit left United with only two recognised senior goalkeepers: Altay Bayindir, who has struggled for consistency since his move from Fenerbahce, and Lammens, a 23 year old Belgian signed from Royal Antwerp on transfer deadline day.
Lammens is regarded as a player with considerable potential but he lacks the experience of playing at the very top level. He has never been tested in the Premier League and only has limited senior appearances under his belt in Belgium. While United’s coaching staff believe he has the tools to develop into a reliable number one, there are still lingering concerns over whether he is ready to handle the pressure of being the main man in goal for a club of United’s size and expectation.
Bayindir’s position is equally uncertain. The Turkey international has been unable to convince since joining United and rumours continue to circulate about his future. There is a belief among some within the club that he could be allowed to leave in January if a suitable offer arrives, leaving the Red Devils in a position where reinforcements would become almost inevitable.
Transfer specialist Ben Jacobs has stated that United’s current plan is to give Lammens the opportunity to establish himself over the next few months. However, if he struggles to adapt, United are expected to revisit their goalkeeper shortlist in the winter. Martinez remains a leading candidate, having previously held discussions with the club before the decision was taken to move for Lammens.
The World Cup winning goalkeeper has been a standout performer for Aston Villa, not only for his shot stopping but also for his commanding presence and leadership at the back. His reputation as one of the Premier League’s most reliable goalkeepers makes him an appealing option for United, particularly at a time when stability is needed. Martinez’s name continues to surface whenever elite clubs are in search of a keeper and United’s interest is far from new.
Another possibility is AC Milan’s Mike Maignan, whose contract situation is attracting significant attention. The Frenchman’s deal at San Siro runs out at the end of the current season, and at 30 years old he is seen as a goalkeeper entering his prime years. Chelsea are also reported to be monitoring him closely, meaning United may face stiff competition if they decide to act.
Speaking to The United Stand, Jacobs suggested that United’s approach will be measured. The club wants to see if Lammens can rise to the challenge but will not hesitate to step into the market if results or performances begin to falter. The January window is being looked at as a potential safety net, with Martinez and Maignan both high on the list of experienced options.
In the short term, attention turns to who will start between the posts in the Manchester derby. Manager Ruben Amorim, who is still in the early stages of his time in charge at Old Trafford, has a crucial decision to make. Lammens has trained with his new teammates throughout the international break and could be thrust into the spotlight with a dramatic debut against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
Bayindir, despite his struggles, does have the advantage of familiarity with English football and some experience of playing in high intensity matches. The derby represents a massive occasion and Amorim must decide whether to back his new arrival immediately or turn to Bayindir’s experience in what is one of the most difficult fixtures on the calendar.
Amorim is expected to give more insight when he speaks to the media on Friday in his pre match press conference. His comments will be closely analysed as fans and pundits look for clues about who will get the nod in goal for one of the season’s most highly anticipated games.
For now, United’s plan is to give Lammens the chance to grow into the role. Yet with Martinez still on the radar and Maignan available to be signed on a free transfer next summer, the club is clearly keeping its options open. The January transfer window may well bring another twist in a goalkeeping situation that continues to develop week by week.
Should we send you latest update about your favourite sports and team?
Enter you email in the box below and hit the subscribe button to join our teaming 876+ sports community.
