Manchester United have beaten Premier League rivals Arsenal in the race to sign Lisandro Martinez, claims Fabrizio Romano.
The two English sides have long been linked with the central defender but it looks like United have managed to convince Ajax as well as Martinez on a transfer.
Initially, Ajax were reluctant to cash in on Lisandro Martinez but in the previous few days, the player himself has been asking for an exit due to his desire to play in the Premier League next season.
While did not have any favourites but it looks like the centre-back has opted to reunite with Erik ten Hag rather than join Arsenal. It makes sense that he has chosen Old Trafford over the Emirates Stadium because United are in dire need of a proper ball-playing centre-back but on the other hand, Mikel Arteta has plenty of defensive options right now.
What are the details of the transfer?
Romano has given this transfer a Here We Go and according to the Italian transfer expert, Manchester United are paying €55 million for the 24-year-old.
He wrote on Twitter: “Lisandro Martínez to Manchester United, here we go! Full agreement in place between Man United and Ajax for package up to €55m. Lisandro will sign until 2027, documents now approved.
“Deal done – meeting in Amsterday on Wednesday was the key step. Ten Hag, big factor.”
Lisandro Martínez to Manchester United, here we go! Full agreement in place between Man United and Ajax for package up to €55m. Lisandro will sign until 2027, documents now approved. 🚨🔴 #MUFC
Deal done – meeting in Amsterday on Wednesday was the key step. Ten Hag, big factor. pic.twitter.com/qyYskmgNMU
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 15, 2022
Will Man United benefit from signing Lisandro Martinez?
Yes, Lisandro Martinez is a very good player but we don’t think Arsenal will be too disheartened about losing out on him because Mikel Arteta has players like Ben White, Gabriel and William Saliba at his disposal.
However, this is going to be a very crucial signing for Man United because Harry Maguire, Lindelof and Eric Bailly had all been below average last season.
While Erik ten Hag has put his faith in Harry Maguire, it’s kind of an open secret that the new manager is on the lookout for a new central defender who’s pacy and is also good with the ball at his feet.
Lisandro Martinez has both these characteristics and since he’s worked with Ten Hag at Ajax, the new arrival knows exactly what to expect. If everything goes to plan then the Argentine could be the long-term partner to Raphael Varane next season.
