EXCLUSIVE: Man Utd to battle Chelsea for David de Gea replacement

Steve Kay

• Updated: 29 Jun 2023 19:04 BST
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Manchester United are ready to battle Chelsea for Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez.

We are told that Erik ten Hag hopes to team him up with fellow Argentina teammate Lisandro Martinez.

The Dutchman feels the connection they have playing together for the national team will benefit Man Utd’s defence next season.

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Chelsea are also interested in the goalkeeper - with compatriot Mauricio Pochettino said to be keen on the World Cup winner.

Indeed, Ten Hag sees him as the perfect replacement for David de Gea, whose future at Old Trafford looks in limbo with the club reportedly going back on their contract terms with the Spaniard.

Villa keeper Martinez wants a move away from the Midlands to play for a club in the Champions League, we understand.

And Man Utd can offer him just that. The shot-stopper is now 30 and hopes to perform on the biggest stage before his peak drops.

The Argentine has informed Unai Emery of his desire to leave the club and the manager is happy to let him go if a replacement can be found for Villa.

De Gea will officially become a free agent on Friday when his contract ends, while Dean Henderson is also set to leave, with Nottingham Forest linked to their former player.

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The De Gea situation

Ten Hag has insisted publicly that he wants De Gea to stay, but in the background, he is looking to cut his wages from £375,000.

Besides Martinez, Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana has emerged as a target to replace the Spaniard. Man Utd are in talks with the Italians over a possible deal.

The Cameroonian goalkeeper was one of the best in his position last term, reaching the Champions League final with the Serie A giants and it’s thought that Man Utd have him on their shortlist ahead of next season.