Manchester United’s attempt to sign Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa was complicated by Jadon Sancho’s reluctance to move to Villa Park. United proposed a player-plus-cash deal involving Sancho, but his hesitation led to the deal’s collapse. United then signed Senne Lammens from Antwerp. The Red Devils face tough Premier League matches against Manchester City and Chelsea after the international break.
Manchester United's pursuit of Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez took an unexpected turn in the 2025 transfer window, with Jadon Sancho playing an unwitting role in the saga. The Red Devils' interest in the Argentine goalkeeper was well-documented, but their attempts to secure his signature were ultimately thwarted by Sancho's reluctance to leave Manchester for the West Midlands, according to football insider Fabrizio Romano.
United's interest in Martinez stemmed from a desire to bolster their goalkeeping options. While they had capable custodians, the opportunity to acquire a seasoned international like Martinez was deemed too good to pass up. Initial discussions with Aston Villa centered around a cash deal, but as the transfer deadline loomed, United explored alternative solutions to bridge the financial gap.
It was at this juncture that Sancho's name entered the equation. United, recognizing Villa's long-standing interest in the English winger, proposed a player-plus-cash deal that would see Sancho move to Villa Park in exchange for Martinez. The offer was enticing for Villa, who had been monitoring Sancho's situation at Old Trafford and believed he could add a new dimension to their attack. However, the deal hinged on Sancho's willingness to make the switch.
Unfortunately for United, Sancho was hesitant to entertain a permanent move to Aston Villa. While he acknowledged the club's ambition and the potential for regular playing time, he remained committed to proving himself at Manchester United. Sancho's stance threw a wrench in United's plans, leaving them scrambling for alternative solutions in the final hours of the transfer window.
In a twist of fate, Sancho eventually joined Aston Villa on a season-long loan. However, Villa were unwilling to entertain a similar proposal from United for Martinez. This meant that United had to look elsewhere for a goalkeeper to add to their squad. The Red Devils, with limited funds remaining, turned their attention to Senne Lammens from Antwerp. The Belgian goalkeeper was purchased for an initial £18.2 million and will wear the no.31 shirt for the current campaign.
Lammens' arrival at Old Trafford provides United with added depth in the goalkeeping department. While he may not immediately displace the established first-choice, his presence will provide healthy competition and ensure that United are well-equipped for the challenges ahead. Lammens could make his debut when United return after the international break.
The Red Devils face a stern challenge in the Premier League following the break as they are due to face Manchester City and Chelsea. These matches will provide an early test of United's title credentials and offer a glimpse into their progress under the current management.
The failed pursuit of Martinez serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in modern-day transfers. Even when clubs agree on a fee, the willingness of players to move can often prove to be a decisive factor. In this instance, Sancho's reluctance to leave Manchester United ultimately scuppered the deal, leaving the Red Devils to pursue alternative options in the goalkeeping department.