Ruben Amorim reportedly sets Lionel Messi’s Argentina star teammate as top signing priority for Manchester United

Ruben Amorim has been handed the responsibility of rebuilding Manchester United after several years of decline, and the new head coach is shaping the squad to match his footballing philosophy. Ahead of the 2025–26 season, Amorim has reportedly made one of Lionel Messi’s Argentina teammates his top transfer target at Old Trafford.

Among the many flaws exposed during United’s disappointing 2024-25 campaign, the goalkeeping position stood out as a major concern. Andre Onana’s costly errors led to numerous goals conceded, and Altay Bayındır failed to establish himself as a reliable backup, prompting the club to seek a stronger option between the posts.

According to Argentine journalist Gaston Edul, Manchester United are actively working on a deal to sign Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez. Talks between Aston Villa and the Red Devils are already underway, with Amorim identifying the World Cup-winning goalkeeper as a key addition for the upcoming preseason.

In Villa’s final Premier League game at Villa Park, cameras captured an emotional Martinez waving to the crowd, hinting at a possible farewell. Meanwhile, the club has begun preparing for life after him, having signed goalkeeper Marco Bizot from French side Stade Brestois.

While Edul notes that negotiations are still ongoing and far from finalized, United are reportedly leading the race for Martinez’s signature. With a current market valuation of €20 million on Transfermarkt, the Argentine star could become Amorim’s second major acquisition after the signing of Matheus Cunha for €73.3 million.

Onana’s future in question

After reaching the UEFA Champions League final with Inter Milan, Andre Onana joined Manchester United in a deal worth over €50 million. Expectations were high for the Cameroonian keeper, but his performances fell short, making him a frequent target of fan criticism following a string of high-profile mistakes.

As the Red Devils prepare for their preseason tour in the United States, Onana will be absent due to a hamstring injury, which is expected to sideline him for about a month. While the keeper is determined to fight for his place and redeem himself, Amorim’s pursuit of Martínez suggests that Onana may no longer be in the club’s long-term plans.