Manchester United could be set to hand Arsenal a major blow this summer as Erik ten Hag plots a transfer swoop for Lisandro Martinez. The 24-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, but a late move to Old Trafford could be on the cards.
The Argentina international, who sees his contract at The Johan Cruyff Arena expire in 2025, featured 24 times for Ajax in the Eredivisie last season, steering the Dutch giants towards a third successive league title. His impressive displays have reportedly courted the interest of Mikel Arteta, who is said to have already had two bids rejected after falling short of the defender's asking price.
Martinez is believed to be keen on penning a deal in north London, but United seem eager to hijack the Gunners' interest. According to talkSPORT, the Argentine has emerged as the Red Devils' priority centre-half target and a £40million bid is said to be in the pipeline that could see the defender swiftly reunited with his former boss Ten Hag.
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Once minimum add-ons are included in United's bid, it's said that the fee will meet Ajax's £43.3million (€50m) valuation and likely be enough to beat Arsenal in the race for Martinez's signature. Arsenal's opening bid of £26million (€30m) has rejected and the Dutch side are yet answer Edu's latest offer which is worth around £34million (€40m).
talkSPORT add that United have asked to remain informed regarding Martinez's situation. And, while it seems that United are already in the lead for the defender's signature from a financial perspective, Ten Hag could what seals the deal.
The United boss has previously hailed the Argentine for his services, labelling him as an 'excellent player'. Ten Hag said: "I find Lisandro Martinez an excellent player, he is actually starting material and this is why I talk with him a lot."
Arsenal have reportedly made a third offer for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez. A report from The Sun claims that the Gunners have 'improved the financial terms of their second bid of £34million'.
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