Manchester United are accelerating their push to solve a long-standing issue between the posts, with two names firmly on their radar: Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez and Royal Antwerp’s Senne Lammens. With the transfer deadline fast approaching, the club faces a crucial decision that could define its 2025–26 season.
Years of Instability in Goal
The Red Devils have struggled to find consistency in goal since the decline of David de Gea. Once a world-class shot-stopper, De Gea’s struggles with distribution and errors under pressure ultimately led to his exit in 2023.
United turned to Andre Onana as his replacement, investing around £50 million in hopes of securing a modern goalkeeper capable of building play from the back. However, mistakes in both domestic and European competitions quickly raised concerns. Backup keeper Altay Bayindir has also failed to take his opportunity, committing errors in critical games this season.
These recurring problems have forced Erik ten Hag and the club’s recruitment team to urgently seek a dependable solution before the transfer window closes.
Martinez: Proven at the Highest Level
One of the top options is Emiliano Martinez, a goalkeeper known for his resilience, leadership, and ability to deliver in big moments. Since leaving Arsenal for Aston Villa, the Argentine has established himself among the Premier League’s elite.
Internationally, his performances for Argentina have been defining—helping them lift both the Copa America and the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His penalty heroics in high-stakes matches have cemented his reputation as a big-game player, something Manchester United has sorely lacked.
Although a move for Martinez would be expensive, his experience and commanding presence make him a strong candidate to bring immediate stability to Old Trafford.
Lammens: The Young Contender
On the other hand, 23-year-old Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens is being considered as a more affordable and long-term option. Standing tall and agile, he has drawn comparisons to Thibaut Courtois in his early years.
Manchester United view him as a project who could be nurtured into a world-class goalkeeper over time. With a transfer fee expected to be around £20 million, Lammens represents a strategic investment for the future rather than an instant fix.
The Dilemma: Experience or Development?
Manchester United’s decision now hinges on whether the club prioritises immediate improvement or builds patiently for the future. Martinez offers leadership, authority, and consistency, while Lammens brings youth, potential, and room to grow.
Either way, securing one of these targets before deadline day could prove vital in addressing a problem that has haunted United for years.
What Fans Can Expect
For supporters, this transfer window represents more than just a signing—it is about restoring confidence and reliability at the back. With Erik ten Hag under pressure to deliver results, the right goalkeeper could be the turning point for United’s season.
Whether it’s the battle-tested Emiliano Martinez or the promising Senne Lammens, Manchester United appear closer than ever to solving their goalkeeping crisis once and for all.