Emiliano Martinez's starring role as Argentina won the World Cup has not gone unnoticed, with Bayern Munich reportedly eyeing a move for the goalkeeper.
The Golden Glove winner made a stunning save to deny Randal Kolo Muani with only seconds remaining in extra-time. He then saved Kingsley Coman's penalty in the deciding shootout before doing enough to make Aurelien Tchouameni put his spotkick wide of the goal.
With Argentina scoring all four of their penalties, the South Americans lifted their country's first World Cup since 1986. Martinez's performance in the final was little surprise, given how well he has played throughout the tournament.
Those displays have now attracted the eyes of Bayern Munich, who have seen first-choice keeper Manuel Neuer ruled out for the rest of the season after a skiing accident. According to Media Foot, Bayern are 'interested' in the 25-year-old.
The Bundesliga giants are said to have made signing a new goalkeeper a 'priority' for the January window, with an experienced player top of their list. The injury to Neuer has changed their plans for the winter window, with bringing in a new keeper now a must.
It is said that Bayern consider it 'out of the question' to not recruit a replacement for the stricken Neuer. The German side have been 'very attentive' to their performance of goalkeepers during the World Cup.
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That scouting has now seen them drawn to Martinez, who is said to be part of their 'thoughts'. He is considered the leading target and talks are already underway at Bayern as they look to launch a move.
One potential stumbling block is the fact that he still has five years to run on his contract at Aston Villa, with 'no plans' to leave the Premier League. One potential opening for Bayern though is the fact that Martinez is keen to play Champions League football.
"There are few clubs right now who could afford a goalkeeper like him. But Serie A, why not? Clearly, he is aiming high and targeting the Champions League," his agent Gustavo Doni told told Tuttomercatoweb.
Martinez revealed his relief at putting in a penalty shootout masterclass after Argentina twice threw away the win in normal and extra-time. He also dedicated their triumph to his family having achieved a life-long dream.
"We suffered a lot. We thought we were in control but they managed to come back. It was a very complicated game. Our destiny was to suffer," Martinez said.
“They had one last chance to win. Luckily I was able to stop it with my foot. This is a moment I’ve always dreamed of living, I have no words for it. I left very young for England and I would like to dedicate this victory to my family.
“I did my thing, what I dreamed of. There could not have been a World Cup that I have dreamed of like this. I was calm during the penalties.”
