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Recent reports had suggested Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez is keen on a move to Manchester United, but that might no longer be the case.
Football Insider have claimed the World Cup winner has his heart set on a move to Atletico Madrid, where he can reunite with compatriot Diego Simeone.
Jan Oblak could be on his way to the Saudi Pro League, and the Argentine has been earmarked by the Rojiblancos as his replacement.
“Emiliano Martinez has his “heart set” on joining Atletico Madrid this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Atletico in the driver’s seat for Emiliano Martinez
“Atletico and Manchester United have both registered their interest in signing the Aston Villa star following increased speculation around his future.
“The Argentina international has revealed to friends his preference is to join Atletico in the coming weeks.”
Ruben Amorim has also been keen on an upgrade between the sticks with Andre Onana failing to impress last season, while committing high-profile errors both domestically and in Europe.
A flurry of reports have suggested that the Villa No.1 has given his approval to a move to Old Trafford with INEOS needing £40 million to secure his signature.
United set to miss out
But with Onana yet to agree a move away, despite the Red Devils offering his services to Saudi clubs, it seems the Cameroonian is likely to start in goal once the new season starts.
Emiliano Martinez’s asking price is also too high given his age, and this uncertainty seems to have paid off in Aletico’s favour.
There is also the small matter of Villa trying to steer clear of breaching PSR. And for that, they need a major sale before the end of the month.
United are unlikely to take a call on the goalkeeping position so soon, and it is advantage Atletico as things stand. United will not be too disappointed given Martinez’s recent form and the abundance of options on the market.
Feature image Richard Heathcote via Getty Images
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