Manchester United sent fans into a frenzy on Wednesday afternoon when they confirmed their third signing of the summer, with Lisandro Martinez arriving from Ajax to sign a five-year contract.
Martinez, who was a regular under Erik ten Hag at the Amsterdam club last season, was earmarked as United’s top defensive target and he has now become the latest Argentine to sign for the club.
Speaking after signing, Martinez delivered the verdict on joining United: “It’s an honour to join this great football club. I’ve worked so hard to get to this moment and, now that I’m here, I’m going to push myself even further,” the 24-year old is quoted as saying by the official Manchester United website.
“I’ve been lucky enough to be part of successful teams in my career and that’s what I want to continue at Manchester United. There will be a lot of work to get to that moment, but I firmly believe that, under this manager and coaches, and together with my new team-mates, we can do it.
“I want to thank Ajax and their fans for all the support they gave me. I had an unbelievable time there but feel the moment is right to test myself in another environment. Now I am at the perfect club to do this.”
Read more: Gary Neville laughs at ‘sensitive’ Barcelona fans after De Jong tweet
SN’s verdict…
Martinez earned heaps of praise over his time at Ajax and his tenacious style will win the Old Trafford faithful over. From a tactical viewpoint, he adds another dimension.
For the last three years, United have used two right-footed centre-backs and at times, that can become predictable and rigid. A left-footed centre-back on the left side is what Ten Hag has always preferred and he will be happy to have that option now.
Fans will be made to wait before they get to see him in action, however. He will not join the squad for the rest of their tour of Australia and will instead link up with his new teammates upon their return.
