Onana Injury and Bayindir Exit Push Manchester United Towards Martinez Signing
Manchester United’s summer transfer strategy has taken an unexpected turn as a combination of injury concerns and potential exits between the sticks is forcing the club to act quickly. With André Onana facing a fitness scare and Altay Bayindir reportedly on the verge of a move away from Old Trafford, United have identified a potential solution — a move for Emiliano Martínez, Aston Villa’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper.
Sources inside the club confirm that preliminary discussions are underway, with United seeing Martínez as a ready-made replacement capable of stepping into the No.1 role if needed. His leadership, experience, and pedigree have made him a standout option — especially in a summer where dependable goalkeepers are few and far between.
The Situation with Onana
United’s first-choice goalkeeper, André Onana, ended the 2024/25 season with a series of strong performances that helped the Red Devils secure a European place. However, the Cameroonian has suffered a minor but worrying injury setback during United’s early pre-season preparations. While not considered long-term, the injury has disrupted his fitness work and could delay his availability for the start of the season.
Club medical staff are closely monitoring Onana’s situation, but Erik ten Hag is already planning for the possibility of being without his No.1 goalkeeper for several key early fixtures, including the opening Premier League weekend and pre-season tour of the United States.
Ten Hag is said to be concerned about squad stability in goal — a position where continuity and rhythm are crucial. With Onana’s availability uncertain and no experienced cover currently locked in, United cannot afford to take risks.
Bayindir’s Imminent Exit
Adding to the urgency is the expected departure of Altay Bayindir, the Turkish international who arrived at Old Trafford from Fenerbahçe last summer. Despite joining as a capable No. 2, Bayindir has made just one competitive appearance for the club and is now pushing for regular first-team football elsewhere.
Turkish giants Besiktas and Trabzonspor are both reported to be in advanced talks with United, with Bayindir open to a move back to the Süper Lig. The 26-year-old is believed to be frustrated with the lack of opportunities at Old Trafford and wants to cement his place as Turkey’s national team goalkeeper ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Once Bayindir leaves, United would be left with only inexperienced options like Radek Vitek or youth keeper Kie Plumley, neither of whom are considered ready to start in Premier League or European competition.
Why Emiliano Martínez?
Amid this goalkeeping uncertainty, Emiliano Martínez has emerged as the top candidate to reinforce United’s squad. The Aston Villa shot-stopper has enjoyed a stellar few years, winning the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022, guiding Villa to the Champions League under Unai Emery, and establishing himself as one of the most reliable keepers in England.
Martínez combines shot-stopping ability with elite distribution and commanding presence in the box. Known for his vocal leadership and psychological edge — evident in his penalty shootout heroics for club and country — Martínez brings the kind of character United have often lacked in recent seasons.
At 32, he’s in the prime of his career for a goalkeeper and has the experience to either support Onana or take over if the injury proves more serious. He’s also Premier League-proven, removing the usual adaptation concerns that come with foreign signings.
Inside the Deal: What Would It Cost?
Aston Villa value Martínez highly, but United believe a deal could be struck in the region of £30–£35 million, particularly if the player pushes for the move. Villa, now balancing Champions League ambitions with FFP constraints, may be tempted to cash in if the price is right — especially with interest building for other Villa players like Douglas Luiz and Jacob Ramsey.
Martínez is under contract until 2027, so Villa are under no pressure to sell. However, his agent has previously hinted that he would be open to a move to a bigger club if the right opportunity arose.
United’s revamped recruitment team, including figures from INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s inner circle, are said to view Martínez as a “low-risk, high-value” signing — the type of transfer the club has lacked in recent years.
Tactical Fit and Squad Implications
If Martínez were to join United, it would provide Erik ten Hag with a massive upgrade in terms of squad depth. Rather than fielding a youth keeper or gambling on Onana’s early return, United would have two elite goalkeepers competing for the No.1 shirt — something rarely seen since the David de Gea–Sergio Romero partnership.
Tactically, Martínez is a strong fit. While not quite as adventurous with his feet as Onana, he has improved his distribution significantly under Unai Emery and frequently acts as a sweeper-keeper. His reflexes and command of the penalty area would be particularly valuable in Premier League games where United are under pressure.
Moreover, Martínez’s arrival could help push Onana to even greater levels — competition often brings out the best in top athletes. Alternatively, should Onana suffer a longer layoff or see a dip in form, United wouldn’t be left exposed.
Fan Reaction and Pundit Views
The potential move for Martínez has already sparked discussion among supporters and pundits alike. Many fans view it as a smart piece of business — pragmatic, cost-effective, and rooted in real-world squad needs.
On social media, United supporters praised the move as a “rare example of foresight”, while others expressed surprise that Villa might be willing to part with such a crucial player.
Former United keeper Peter Schmeichel, speaking on a football podcast, remarked:
> “Martínez is a warrior. He brings an edge to the team — that kind of confidence is infectious. If United can get him, it’s a no-brainer.”
On the other hand, Villa fans are understandably anxious. Losing Martínez would be a blow ahead of their Champions League return, and many are urging the club to offer him a contract extension or increased wages to stay.
What Comes Next?
Manchester United are expected to accelerate talks with Aston Villa in the coming days, especially if Onana’s injury does not improve and Bayindir’s exit is finalized. With pre-season fixtures looming, Ten Hag wants his squad in shape well before the Premier League opener.
If personal terms can be agreed, Martínez would become one of United’s marquee summer signings — not a flashy outfield addition, but a structurally vital one. His presence would ensure United have the depth, stability, and leadership required for a long and grueling campaign across four competitions.
Conclusion
Injuries and squad turnover often force clubs into reactive decision-making. But in the case of Emiliano Martínez, Manchester United may have stumbled upon a solution that’s both reactive and strategic. With Onana sidelined and Bayindir heading out the door, Martínez could be the experienced, battle-tested keeper Ten Hag needs to steady the ship.
If the deal goes through, United fans may look back on this as the moment the club finally got their goalkeeping department right — not by panic-buying, but by investing in a player who embodies resilience, excellence, and ambition.
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