Aston Villa manager Unai Emery hopes to see Emiliano Martinez win "many trophies" at Aston Villa after the goalkeeper's dad hinted at a future move.
Martinez was named the Best FIFA Men's Goalkeeper earlier this week, following a sensational showing as Argentina won the World Cup in Qatar. The 30-year-old's incredible rise since leaving Arsenal has reportedly caught the eye of a number of Europe's top clubs.
Links with United inevitably surfaced, given David de Gea is now 32 and into the final few months of his contract - though the player is confident a new short-term deal can be agreed. And speaking to TyC Sports in Argentina, Martinez's father, Beto, hinted he could leave Villa in the future.
EXCLUSIVE: Erik ten Hag targeting two major United signings in summer
When asked if he would like to see his son sign for Manchester United, Beto said: “Hopefully he will go to one of those great teams, until now he has his head in Aston Villa. Emery asks him not to leave, to please stay at Aston Villa. He loves it.”
Emery has often spoken about Martinez since he replaced Steven Gerrard in October, praising his goalkeeper's leadership qualities and often citing the Argentina international as a core part of his future plans. And the Villa boss said after seeing Martinez win the award that he hopes to have him for years to come.
"Emi is an example of self-improvement and has managed to reach the top with many difficulties due to his effort and mentality," he said, as per the club's official Twitter account. "For Aston Villa, he is an example and a source of pride. He deserves this award and I hope he gets many trophies with us."
READ NEXT
