Manchester United Make Late Push for New Goalkeeper as Deadline Looms

Manchester United are making a final push to sign a new goalkeeper, with Senne Lammens and Emi Martínez both in contention as the transfer window enters its final hours. Only one will join the squad, with significant talks ongoing.

WHAT HAPPENED?

United are negotiating with both Royal Antwerp for Senne Lammens and Aston Villa for Emi Martínez. Sources suggest Lammens is currently the closest to a move, with a fee reportedly agreed between €25 and €27 million. The 22-year-old Belgian, who has been highly rated for his agility and shot-stopping skills, has been left out of Antwerp’s squad to avoid injury as transfer discussions heat up, following a season where he kept 12 clean sheets in over 50 appearances. Personal terms with Senne Lammens are almost agreed, and reports indicate that United are getting closer to signing him. The Martínez deal faces complications, as it may involve Jadon Sancho being included in the negotiations with Aston Villa. Both goalkeepers have displayed interest in the move, but United’s decision will come down to the wire, with only hours remaining before the transfer deadline.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Manchester United are starting the 2025-26 season under the pressure of last year’s disappointment, having finished fifteenth in the Premier League and missing out on Champions League football. The club have conceded four goals in their first three matches this campaign, raising concerns about their defensive stability. With current starter André Onana under scrutiny for several errors, fans and staff are eager for fresh competition in the goalkeeping spot. Lammens featured prominently last season, helping Antwerp finish third in Belgium and recording 12 clean sheets. Martínez played a key role in Aston Villa’s run to the Europa League places, conceding just 35 goals in 38 league appearances. Manchester United is looking for an experienced goalkeeper to bolster their defense, as their search for a goalkeeper could shape the rest of their season.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR UNITED AND THE TEAMS INVOLVED?

Manchester United’s next match is a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City, who currently sit just one point below them in the table. United need a win to climb from 8th toward the top four, with only three points separating them from 2nd-placed Chelsea at this stage. Royal Antwerp will open their Champions League group stage campaign next week without Lammens, if the deal goes through. Aston Villa, meanwhile, face Everton as they look to build on their strong start; Villa are 19th in the Premier League, with one point won from three matches. All eyes are on deadline day as United try to bring in the goalkeeper they believe can help turn their season around.