Manchester United’s search for key reinforcements has hit a wall after Aston Villa rejected their approach for two top players.
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United manager Ruben Amorim wants a new striker and goalkeeper after growing frustrated with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee’s inconsistency.
Villa’s Ollie Watkins is among United’s striker targets, alongside Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig and Fiorentina’s Moise Kean this summer.
However, it’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez who United made a move for first, submitting a loan request that Villa have now denied.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed the approach was rejected swiftly, with Villa unwilling to lose a key player in Martinez.
Posting on X, Romano said: “Aston Villa have rejected an approach from Man United for Dibu Martinez on a loan deal.”
Martinez is seen as the ideal replacement for Andre Onana, whose future remains uncertain after a difficult debut season at Old Trafford, reports National World.
United are also considering other goalkeepers, including Royal Antwerp’s Jean Butez and Maarten Vandevoordt, plus prospect Arnaud Bodart from Standard Liège.
Villa reportedly value Martinez at over £20 million, but his influence under Unai Emery makes a deal unlikely without a big offer.
As Amorim’s rebuild continues, United may need to explore other options before the transfer window closes in August.
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