Man Utd denied Ruben Amorim's request to spend big on Emi Martinez as details behind failed loan approach for Aston Villa goalkeeper come to light

United’s problems between the sticks have been glaring since David de Gea's exit in 2023. Onana’s arrival was supposed to bring calm and control, but the Cameroonian has failed to assure the fans. The doubts deepened at the weekend when Onana’s understudy, Altay Bayindir, was handed the gloves against Arsenal. The Turkish keeper fumbled at a crucial moment, gifting the Gunners a winner in a tightly contested 1-0 defeat. The blunder only amplified the urgency for a reliable number one.

Meanwhile, Martinez’s future at Villa Park has been clouded in uncertainty since last season’s emotional farewell gesture at the ground. With United circling and doubts mounting over Onana’s ability to lead from the back, the door looked wide open for a blockbuster switch. But despite Amorim’s insistence that the Argentine was the man to steady the ship, United chiefs refused to write the cheque.

Journalist Gaston Edul revealed on the YouTube channel 412 that Martinez was a leading target for United, but Amorim’s pleas for a big-money bid fell on deaf ears. The board instead put forward only a loan proposal, a move Villa flatly dismissed.

“The deal was very close (Emi Martinez to Manchester United),” Edul said.

“The coaching staff, especially Amorim, wanted him, and Martinez knew that Amorim wanted him. Amorim could not convince the United board that it was important to spend on a good goalkeeper. Well, they told him that Onana was there and said, ‘OK, we’ll do you a favour and try,’ and they offered a loan. Aston Villa made it clear under what conditions they would let him go for a sale.”

Under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s restructuring drive, United are attempting to rein in reckless spending while streamlining the squad. Amorim’s desire for a top-class shot-stopper clashed with the board’s caution, with executives insisting that Onana must be given another chance to prove his worth. This financial conservatism may save money, but it risks exposing United on the pitch if their goalkeeper carousel continues to cost results.

Will Amorim gamble again on Bayindir despite his howler against Arsenal, or does he fall back on Onana? Sunday’s trip to Craven Cottage to face Fulham will reveal the answers.