Manchester United’s chances of acquiring Lisandro Martinez this summer have been boosted by claims that the Argentine defender has told Ajax that he wants to play in the Premier League.
With a deal for fellow Ajax defender Jurrien Timber apparently off the table, Erik ten Hag has turned his eyes to Martinez, the Dutchman’s center-back partner.
United are said to have launched a £37 million bid for the 24-year-old, who has been a vital part of ten Hag’s success at Ajax in recent seasons, and it now appears that they may be reunited at Old Trafford.
According to the Evening Standard, Martinez has informed Ajax of his desire to play in England’s top tier despite interest from Manchester United and Arsenal, giving them the green light to make their move more serious.
Having received £50 million from the sales of Ryan Gravenberch and Sebastien Haller to Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, respectively, the Eredivisie champions are under no pressure to decrease their £45 million asking price.
There is no doubt that United must improve defensively if they are to re-establish themselves in the Premier League’s top four next season.
Last season, the Red Devils conceded 57 goals in the Premier League, more than relegated Burnley, so it’s no surprise that ten Hag is looking for defensive reinforcements this summer, with Tyrell Malacia being the Dutch manager’s first signing yesterday.
Martinez has made 118 appearances for Ajax since joining from Defensa y Justicia in 2019, contributing six goals and six assists while winning two leagues, two domestic cups, and being named Ajax’s player of the year last season, so ten Hag is definitely a fan of the defender.
Last year, the new United manager praised the Argentine, stating, “He is a defender who likes to move football forward.” Lisandro Martinez is a fantastic player; he is actually starting material, which is why I speak with him frequently.”
As a result, ten Hag clearly adores him, and fans will be happy to learn that he plans to switch from the Netherlands to England this summer.
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