Manchester United think they will sign Lisandro Martinez after positive talks

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Manchester United think they will sign Lisandro Martinez after holding positive talks with Ajax director Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.

The Red Devils are seemingly engulfed in a two-horse race with Arsenal to sign the versatile seven-time Argentina international.

Capable of playing at centre-back, left-back or holding midfield, Erik ten Hag is keen to reunite with his former Ajax charge at Old Trafford.

Having won Ajax’s Player of the Year award for his impressive performances last season, the 24-year-old is seemingly in high demand and looks to be heading for the Premier League.

The big question is whether the South American will choose Manchester or north London for his next destination.

Unlike Arsenal who have Brazilian Gabriel within their ranks, United don’t have a left-footed centre-back to call upon and Ten Hag wants Martinez to fill that void in his squad.

Manchester United think they will sign Lisandro Martinez

Despite being fairly small for a centre-back at 5ft 9in tall, Ten Hag is keen to sign Martinez and he sees the Argentine as a vital part of his Manchester United rebuild.

Martinez played 120 times under Ten Hag following his arrival from Argentine side Defensa three years ago.

The pair won four trophies together, including back-to-back Eredivisie titles.

Despite Arsenal’s ever-growing interest, the Mirror report that United are confident of beating the fellow Europa League qualifiers to the signing of the 2020-21 Copa America winner.

The report states that Ajax director Huntelaar has been in London in recent days and held talks with United over a deal involving Martinez.

It is claimed that United have increased their offer for Martinez to around £39million, meaning its up to Arsenal whether they match or surpass United’s current offer.

With the familiarity and lure of reuniting with Ten Hag potentially proving pivotal in the race to sign Martinez – United have reason to be optimistic that they will get their man.

And if talks with Huntelaar have gone as well as reported – Manchester United could be on the cusp of making their second signing of the Ten Hag era and Martinez could join Tyrell Malacia who is expected to be officially unveiled later today.