Report: Man Utd in danger of losing £45m target to Chelsea | OneFootball

Emiliano Martinez Transfer Battle Heats Up as Chelsea Challenge United for £45m Star

Manchester United and Chelsea could be set for a summer tug-of-war over World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, with the Aston Villa shot-stopper reportedly up for grabs at £45million. The latest update, reported by The Mirror, reveals that Chelsea have been offered the chance to sign the Argentine, although Martinez is believed to prefer a move to Old Trafford.

Martinez Eyes United Despite Chelsea Push

“Manchester United have been linked to a summer move for the 32-year-old former Arsenal shot-stopper and the belief in South America is that he would prefer a switch to Old Trafford.”

That preference gives United the upper hand – on paper. However, Ruben Amorim’s side face a critical hurdle: they must first offload Andre Onana, and only if they recoup around £35million can a deal for Martinez be entertained. With priorities elsewhere in the squad, United’s hands may be tied unless they can accelerate a sale.

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Meanwhile, Chelsea’s interest is far from speculative. Enzo Maresca is looking for a reliable No.1 after both Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen underwhelmed last season. The presence of Blues assistant and fellow Argentine Willy Caballero, a “huge admirer” of Martinez, could play a decisive role in Chelsea’s bid.

Villa Forced to Sell Amid Financial Pressure

Aston Villa’s stance is becoming increasingly clear: they need to sell to avoid breaching the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). The West Midlands club are reluctant to part with rising England talent Morgan Rogers, making Martinez their most viable high-value departure.

“Villa are resigned to being forced to cash in on the World Cup-winning Argentine in a bid to ease fears over failing the Premier League’s PSR test.”

Chelsea’s Advantage Lies in Action, Not Preference

While United might be Martinez’s destination of choice, Chelsea appear the more active party at this stage. With a clear need and no financial constraints on replacing their current keepers, the Blues could table a formal offer before United get their own house in order.

“Martinez has a huge admirer at Stamford Bridge in the shape of assistant manager Willy Caballero.”

Should United stall for too long, Chelsea might just steal a march – and potentially a game-changing goalkeeper.

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From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this one stings — but not yet fatally. Martinez is the type of experienced, elite-level goalkeeper who could offer calm and command in United’s penalty area, especially after Onana’s turbulent first season. At 32, he’s still in his prime for a goalkeeper and brings that big-game pedigree from the World Cup and Premier League.

But Ruben Amorim’s focus on other areas, combined with the financial necessity of selling Onana first, means this deal could drag — or even disappear. There’s a risk United could get caught flat-footed. Chelsea have a history of swift, decisive recruitment and are clearly keen. If they move quickly and offer Villa what they want, United’s hesitation could cost them.

That said, Martinez’s preference for Old Trafford should not be dismissed lightly. If United can find a buyer for Onana — and quickly — this transfer could swing back in their favour. Until then, though, it’s Chelsea with the initiative and United with the dilemma.