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Premier League • England

Lisandro Martinez transfer news: Manchester United lodge bid and take box seat for top Arsenal target

Lisandro Martinez Argentina June 2022

Manchester United have made an offer of around £39m for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez, claim reports.

That is the news coming from a number of different sources, including the Manchester Evening News and 90mins. The former report that United had shortlisted Villarreal’s Pau Torres and Braga defender David Carmo, but Erik ten Hag would rather pursue familiar faces.

The latter claim a bid of £37m (€43m), potentially rising to £38.8m (€45m) with add-ons, has been put on the table.

Manchester United officials have certainly briefed the media as they try and spread some good  news regarding transfers. United have yet to make a splash in the market. The Daily Mirror claim United have told Ajax they will pay £35.3m up front, with a package of add-ons worth another £4.3m for Martinez.

United are believed to have turned to Martinez having seen a move for Ajax team-mate Jurrien Timber fall through. Timber was reportedly advised by Holland boss Louis van Gaal to remain at Ajax or risk his international chances.

Timber is now expected to stay with the Dutch champions. So United have launched a move for Martinez, who is wanted by Arsenal.

The Gunners have made two approaches. The last of which was worth €40m plus add-ons, according to 90mins.

Now United have topped that offer with a €45m proposal.Bbut Ajax are thought to want €50m for the 24-year-old Argentinian. And they will be happy to get into a auction for the player.

Martinez holds plenty of appeal and Sky reporter Melissa Reddy confirmed United’s interest and noted the club are conducting their due diligence on the player.

Lisandro Martinez line up ahead of pre-season tour

The former Newell’s Old Boy’s star can play in a host of defensive positions and also in a holding midfield role. Ten Hag is well aware of the player’s versatility. And De Telegraaf journalist Marcel van der Kraan believes a move is imminent.

Van Der Kraan said (via Sport Witness): “Lisandro Martinez is very high on Erik ten Hag’s wishlist. So I expect big developments in the 24 or 48 hours.”

Van Der Krann also claims Martinez has been wooed by following his old boss to Old Trafford and has “pinned his hopes” on a move to United.

United officials are hopeful of having three deals done before they fly out on their pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia on Friday.

A deal for Feyenoord’s Tyrell Malacia is close, while progress has been made on Frenkie de Jong’s potential arrival.

United also have an offer on the table for Denmark star Christian Eriksen.

READ MORE: Christian Eriksen: Details emerge of meaty Man Utd contract offer and main reason why Dane still remains unsure