Manchester United have confirmed that an agreement has been reached with Ajax over the transfer of Lisandro Martinez. The 24-year-old was earmarked as Erik ten Hag’s prime defensive target earlier this summer.
Martinez will become United’s third signing of the summer after Tyrell Malacia and Christian Eriksen, with the tenacious centre-back expected to feature for the first time when United return from their tour of Australia.
Due to the short turnaround, the Argentina international will not make the 20-hour trip to link up with his new United teammates.
As per the official statement from the club, finalising the transfer is subject to a medical, personal terms being agreed and the player obtaining a work permit.
No fee has been disclosed in United’s confirmation of the acquisition but earlier on Sunday, journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claimed that it will set the club back €55m plus add-ons.
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SN’s verdict…
After a slow start to the summer, Ten Hag is finally starting to shape his United side and he knows his latest recruit well. Martinez is capable of playing in a number of positions but is most likely to feature at centre-back for the Reds.
United are yet to sign a defensive midfielder and there is a possibility that Martinez could start the season in that area as United continue to pursue a deal for Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong.
Regardless, Martinez’s arrival will be seen as a huge coup for Ten Hag and a cornerstone to his revolution at Old Trafford.