The big play for Lisandro Martínez
Arsenal are pushing for the Ajax defender but Manchester United believe they can swoop in. The Gunners’ offer is €40 million plus €5 in add-ons.
The fight for Lisandro Martínez is hotting up with Arsenal and Manchester United set to go head-to-head for the Argentina defender, leading Ajax to rub their hands together. The central defender, 24, is on vacation with Leo Messi and other members of the Argentina squad at the moment but the prospect of a move this summer is increasingly likely after the Gunners tabled an offer of €40 million plus €5m in add-ons. Ajax, though, are happy to play a waiting game while Arsenal nervously wait to see what United will offer the Eredivisie club.
Ten Hag link a boost for United
New Old Trafford boss Erik ten Hag is an ace up United’s sleeve. Lisandro holds the former Ajax boss in high esteem and playing in the Premier is now his main objective. The defender is also an admirer of Mikel Arteta, but he knows Ten Hag very well from their time together in the Eredivisie. United are currently focused on tying up a deal for Frenkie de Jong, but they are also working on other deals including Lisandro. Unlike Arsenal, no specific offer from Old Trafford has been confirmed, but talks have been opened. Ajax are consigned to losing the versatile Argentina defender, but are determined to cash in on any deal. Arsenal are eager to close a deal as quickly as possible because United are expected to make their move very soon.
Lisandro has emerged as one of the finest defenders in Europe and huis current market value, according to Olocip, is €32.5 million. Last season he led Ajax in terms of aerial duels and blocks and was second overall in other areas such as total duels or recoveries. Also able to operate as a deep-lying midfielder, he ranked ninth in the Eredivisie in terms of forward passes.