Man United want Emi Martinez alternative as transfer twist emerges amid Joao Palhinha 'plan'

Manchester United's summer transfer business has hit a little bit of a lull following a chaotic start. Ruben Amorim and key figures upstairs completed their first signing on the first day of the window, with Matheus Cunha making the blockbuster £62.5million transfer in from Wolves on June 1.

Two days later, it was reported that Bryan Mbeumo has outlined his preference to United over a potential switch. Since, Amorim's side have made a £45m-plus £10m add-ons bid, but Brentford have rejected. Despite Tottenham's interest, Mbeumo is still keen on moving to Old Trafford.

Elsewhere, United are in the market for a new No.9. There's been talk around a move for Viktor Gyokeres, but the Sporting CP frontman prefers Arsenal instead, while Victor Osimhen and Randal Kolo Muani continue to be linked.

With this in mind, The Manchester Evening News has taken a look at the latest news;

According to Defensa Central, United have one eye on Real Madrid and Ukraine international goalkeeper Andriy Lunin should a deal for Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez not go through.

The Spanish news outlet has reported that while Martinez is a favourite among the United chiefs, the Argentine has offers from Saudi Arabia that are triple what he could get at Old Trafford.

That has led to United looking at a potential alternative - with a swoop for Lunin explored. The Reds have "made enquiries" with Lunin's agent Jorge Mendes about a potential deal for the 26-year-old.

The Manchester Evening News says: Lunin's performances for Real Madrid during the 2023/2024 campaign were exceptional. He stepped up when needed after Thibaut Courtois tore his Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Kepa Arrizabalaga struggled. While his game-time was reduced last term when