With just under 48 hours remaining in the transfer window, Manchester United are maintaining a dual-track strategy to resolve their goalkeeping crisis but one path now clearly leads through Aston Villa for Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez.
A Trusty Backup Alert: Dibu to the Rescue?
After failing with a summer loan push, United have reignited efforts to land Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez from Villa on a permanent basis. Fabrizio Romano confirms that United have now approached both Aston Villa and Martínez’s camp directly, preparing for every outcome should their primary target not materialize.
Villa’s stance remains firm recent reports hinted at an £80m asking price, reflecting Martínez’s stature, four-year contract, and status as a Premier League top stopper.
The Youth Option: Lammens Comes In Strong
Simultaneously, United are progressing rapidly with Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens, a rising 23-year-old widely seen as future first-team material. Terms are reportedly in place, and Lammens has even been sidelined from Antwerp’s matches as the move edges closer.
The fee is hovering around £17–20 million (€20 million) a more cost-effective investment compared to Martínez, with long-term upside.
Why United Are Playing Both Tracks
Insurance in the Trapdoor: Onana’s form remains patchy, Bayındır exposed, and with the Africa Cup of Nations looming, United can’t afford to be stuck hence pursuing Dibu as Plan B.
Different Risks, Different Rewards: Lammens offers modern potential at low cost; Martínez brings proven experience but at a hefty premium. Ensuring both are explored is smart risk management especially with time running out.
What’s Next on the Clock
Final talks intensify with Antwerp and Villa as United works against the clock to finalise one if not both key goalkeeping additions.
Dibu’s interest remains real, as he has previously signaled his readiness for Old Trafford despite United’s earlier loan attempts being rebuffed.
Boardroom moves may soon prioritize whichever deal is viable, given the tight deadline pressure.
