English giants Manchester United have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Lisandro Martinez, who will become their third summer signing.
According to reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Lisandro Martinez is on the verge of becoming the second signing of the summer transfer window for Manchester United. The Red Devils will secure the services of the Ajax defender in a deal worth €55 million, including add-ons, with the Argentine international set to sign a five-year contract.
Lisandro Martinez has been with Ajax for three years, with the Dutch giants signing him from Defensa y Justicia in 2019. The 24-year-old has been a regular for Ajax since then, reprising various roles in defence and midfield. At the same time, he has also established a foothold in the Argentine national side.
Martinez has turned out 118 times for Ajax, chipping in with six goals and six assists. And the player’s exploits over the last three years did not go unnoticed, with several European bigwigs, including Manchester United, setting their sights on him.
The interest from Manchester United first emerged towards the end of the 2021/22 season, a horrific campaign for the Red Devils. The defensive unit was the Achilles heel for Manchester United in the recently-concluded campaign, with Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, and Victor Lindelof leaving a lot to be desired with their performances.
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
Varane’s fitness record added to Manchester United’s woes. In addition, Eric Bailly, Phil Jones, and Axel Tuanzebe face uncertain futures at Old Trafford, thus necessitating the addition of a new centre-back. And with no central defender at the club being naturally left-footed, Martinez could be a handy addition to the first-team squad.
Erik ten Hag has been keen on reuniting with Martinez at Old Trafford, and he pushed Manchester United to beat Arsenal to his signature. And while Ajax held firm on the final transfer fee, the Red Devils have found a breakthrough in negotiations, reaching an agreement over a €55 million deal.
Personal terms were never an issue for Manchester United, and Martinez will sign a five-year contract when he officially moves to Old Trafford. All that now remains to officiate the transfer is the official statement, following which Martinez will become Manchester United’s second summer signing in a €55 million deal.
