The truth about Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez’s release clause can be revealed amid reported interest from Manchester United.
Ruben Amorim’s side could be forced to sign a new goalkeeper after Andre Onana suffered a hamstring tear on the second day of pre-season training.
The Cameroonian will be sidelined for between four and six weeks, potentially keeping him out of United’s opening Premier League fixtures against Arsenal and Fulham as well.
Earlier in the summer, United were linked with a move for Villa shot stopper Martinez, but talks appear to have gone quiet on that front.
The Argentine was emotional at the end of the final home game of last season, against Tottenham on May 16, and while that does not guarantee his departure, it is thought Martinez would consider a new challenge.
Reports in Argentina this week suggested United have regnited their interest in the former Arsenal star after finding out about his £21.6million release clause.
Man United were linked with a move for Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez earlier in the summer
Despite reports in Argentina, Martinez does not have a £21.6million release clause
Ruben Amorim could be forced into buying a goalkeeper after Andre Onana’s recent injury
However, Mailsport can reveal that Martinez does not have such clause in his contract.
Even prior to Onana’s injury last week, United were said to be in the market for a new goalkeeper amid his poor poor performances last season.
United have put a £30million price tag on Onana, but he looks increasingly likely to stay at the club this summer.
Mail Sport revealed that was the price quoted to Monaco when the French club inquired about signing Onana at the end of last month.
Sources in France say that Monaco will continue to monitor the situation, but are unlikely to pay that much for the keeper.
Saudi Pro League newcomers SC Neom had also been following Onana in the background for some time before signing Poland international Marcin Bulka from Nice in recent days.
Onana is keen to stay and club sources say the probability is that he will remain as United’s No 1
