Manchester United are reportedly considering whether to launch a bid for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez at some point during 2023.
Martinez has been in the West Midlands since September 2020, making a total of 91 appearances in all competitions having struggled for game time at Arsenal.
As a result of his regular action, Martinez agreed to pen a new long-term contract earlier this year, committing himself to Villa until 2027.
However, the 30-year-old's reputation has only been enhanced over the past 12 months, most notably during his time with Argentina at the recent World Cup.
Martinez starred during penalty-shootout wins over Netherlands and France, his contribution in the latter fixture helping his country lift the Jules Rimet trophy for the first time since 1986.
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While Martinez will now be expected to return to Villa to help their efforts to move into the top half of the Premier League table under new head coach Unai Emery, it has been widely reported that offers from elsewhere may come his way.
Earlier this week, Bayern Munich were credited with an interest in Martinez as they consider short and long-term replacements for Manuel Neuer, who is currently sidelined until 2023-24.
However, according to Football Insider, Man United are contemplating whether to rival Bayern or any other top European club for his signature.
United are well stocked for options between the sticks with David de Gea the established first choice having made 507 appearances since his arrival in 2011.
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Nevertheless, it has been widely claimed that United may not activate the 12-month option in his contract, which is due to expire at the end of the season.
With Martin Dubravka only on loan from Newcastle United and Dean Henderson at Nottingham Forest for the remainder of the season, United could find themselves requiring reinforcements in the near future.
Despite Villa being in a strong position with regards to Martinez's future, a recent report indicated that there was an arrangement where club officials had agreed with Martinez that they would consider any offers from 'an elite club'.
New boss Emery is said to be keen to retain Martinez's services, while Villa would expect to receive well in excess of the £17m that they paid for the goalkeeper two years and three months ago.
Darren Plant
