According to sources, Erik ten Hag has instructed Manchester United to move quickly and make Lisandro Martinez the club’s third summer signing after Tyrell Malacia and Christian Eriksen. The Argentine international is now at the center of a transfer tug-of-war between the Red Devils and Arsenal, both of whom are desperate to win the race for the highly-rated, ball-playing Ajax defender.
Martinez is thought to be the ideal fit for Ten Hag’s defense, and the two had a fun professional relationship while in Amsterdam.
After winning the Eredivisie and the Finalissima last season, he is now regarded as an excellent signing for the Red Devils, capable of instilling a winning attitude in the squad.
United has made a £37 million bid, which is expected to be sufficient to secure a deal with Ajax.
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According to Fabrizio Romano, Ten Hag has personally urged United to complete a trade for his former player, advising them that they must act swiftly in order to beat Arsenal to the center-back position.
“Erik ten Hag wants Manchester United to be quick on the Lisandro Martinez deal,” the transfer guru tweeted. The player has made it obvious that he wants Lisandro to depart Ajax after Malacia and Eriksen.
United have now officially completed the signing of Feyenoord left-back Malacia, which kicks off their summer transfer business.
More are on the way, with former Tottenham midfielder Eriksen expected to arrive on a free transfer after a six-month stint with Brentford.
The offensive midfielder has been deliberating his next move, but he has officially confirmed his intention to join United.
Eriksen will now have a physical before signing a three-year deal at Old Trafford.
Arsenal, on the other hand, is still interested in Martinez and hopes to close a deal soon.
The Gunners are concerned that Ten Hag’s relationship with the player may prove decisive in their bidding battle with United.
United had previously considered Jurrien Timber and Pau Torres to bolster their center-back options.
There appears to be moving in terms of outgoings as well, with Eric Bailly emerging as a loan target for Fulham.
The Cottagers have made initial approaches for the Ivorian, but he wishes to remain and compete for a spot under the new boss.
This summer, Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, and Victor Lindelof are all likely to stay put.
