Although Arsenal have submitted official offers to sign Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez, it is understood that Manchester United are monitoring the situation and could be ready to pounce at the opportunity to sign a new centre-back.
After seemingly missing out on Jurrien Timber, with the 20-year-old set to stay at Ajax for another season, United surely won’t let Arsenal of all teams to beat them to a priority signing.
Respected Dutch journalist Marcel Van der Krann has told De Telegraaf that Martinez is very high on Erik ten Hag’s wishlist, and he expects big developments in the next 24 to 48 hours.
Van der Krann adds that Martinez will also have his hoped pinned on United, despite interest from Arsenal.
Moreover, Ajax are believed to want €45-50m for Martinez this summer.
There were suggestions earlier this summer that United would move for Villarreal defender Pau Torres, but I would imagine we’ve left that market due to funds that will be spent on securing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reacted to Arsenal’s second bid in a column for CaughtOffside and insisted there is still a chance that Martinez could end up at Old Trafford this summer.
“These are two negotiations at different stages,” Romano wrote. “Arsenal have already submitted official offers up to €40m plus add-ons for Martinez, while Manchester United are busy with Tyrell Malacia and Frenkie de Jong but have had contact with Lisandro’s agents.
“The player is so far open to negotiate with both clubs. Arsenal are insisting a lot this week because Arteta is understood to be a big fan of Lisandro, considered a versatile player with top team skills.”
