EMI MARTINEZ is the kind of huge character Manchester United need to restore their battered reputation as a global superpower.
And the good news for United boss Ruben Amorim is the world’s No 1 keeper would be up for the challenge — if Aston Villa decide to cash in this summer.
That is the word from Neil Cutler, Martinez’s old coach at Villa, who remains close pals with his former star pupil.
Cutler, 48, said: “This summer is pivotal for Emi in terms of his career.
“He’s been voted the best goalie in the world twice and there seems to be an opportunity for him this summer, with all of his options open.
“Big clubs are queuing up to speak to him and he either stays at a massive club like Villa or he goes to a truly world-class club.
“I don’t think it’s about money with Emi so I don’t think he is ready to move to Saudi yet.
“If he does move it would be to a much bigger club — one of the really big-hitters like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico… or even Manchester United.”
Martinez, 32, fuelled speculation when he broke down in tears and took a bow in front of the Holte End after Villa’s final home game of the season.
Some feared it was a farewell and since then he was linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League.
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United, Arsenal, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also rumoured to be keen.
Martinez’s contract runs until 2029 but a bid of £40million or more would ease Villa’s PSR concerns.
The Villans have been linked with moves for Lille stopper Lucas Chevalier, Espanyol’s Joan Garcia and Nice’s Marcin Bulka.
Cutler believes this could be one of the rare moments in football when a move could suit everyone.
Amorim certainly needs a new keeper after Andre Onana looked weak at Tottenham’s Europa League final winner again and Martinez could be the inspirational figure he is searching for.
“United can’t offer him Champions League football but the sheer size of the club and the size of the challenge might appeal to Emi,” said Cutler, now in charge of Wolves’ goalkeepers.
“Emi has the confidence required to play for a massive club like United and would feel he could affect the club in a really positive way.
“He would look at United and say: ‘Right, I can make this place better. I can help this club get back to where it was.’
‘HE THRIVES ON THE BIGGEST OCCASIONS’
“He’s all about the challenge, he’s all about the drive and the desire so I think United would suit him.
“He thrives on the biggest occasions and could play for any team in the world as he’s shown by winning the World Cup and Copa America with Argentina.
“He would be a comfortable fit at United and would hit the ground running.
“It’s all down to what Villa want but, at 32, they will know this is when they can get the maximum return on him. If they hold off until next year they’d get less.
“Unai needs a possession-based goalie and the keepers he’s been linked with are top class and younger.
“It could be one of those times when it suits all parties.
“I’m a big Villa fan so I’d love to see him stay – and I wouldn’t be surprised to see Emi lifting the Europa League trophy for Villa in 12 months time.
“But I also want to see him play at the highest level possible and, if one of the really big hitters comes knocking, then he could have a huge decision to make.”
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