Manchester United are on a roll. After appearing to successfully hijack Lyon’s move for Tyrell Malacia, the Red Devils are plotting to gazump another club, this time a Premier League competitor.
The Times reports United are eyeing a move for Lisandro Martinez once the Malacia deal is done.
Arsenal are attempting to land Martinez too, and face missing out, just after seemingly losing Raphinha to Chelsea.
Martinez is well known to United boss Erik ten Hag, who signed him for Ajax.
United plot Lisandro Martinez move
Centre-back is a position United could do with strengthening after conceding 58 league goals last season.
While Arsenal are actively interested in Martinez, United are ready to pounce.
The report states: “United are set to push on with their pursuit of Martínez after Malacia signs. Arsenal have offered £34 million for the Argentina centre back, which is £9 million short of Ajax’s valuation of the 24-year-old.
“United have asked Ajax to keep them updated as to the situation with Martínez as they discuss how much to offer for the left-footed defender.”
With the Erik ten Hag advantage in the club’s back pocket, United will be confident Martinez would choose a move over the Gunners.
£43 million is costly, but it is not an unreasonable amount for the Argentina international, who is a combative centre-back and a good passer.
United really appear to finally mean business after a slow summer so far, with Frenkie de Jong also expected to sign.
The positive intent to sign Martinez is another promising sign.
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