Manchester United are extremely close to completing their third signing of the summer, reports Dutch publication De Telegraaf. Erik ten Hag will finally get his wish of reuniting with his former player Lisandro Martinez, and a deal for the Argentine centre-back is said to be agreed between United and Ajax for 55 million fees, including add-ons.
Ten Hag was insistent on the Red Devils signing him in order to bolster their defence. Being one of the most promising and versatile defenders on the market, the Argentine certainly attracted a lot of attention, and United also had to beat Arsenal in the race to sign him.
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Dutch side Ajax were also reluctant to let Martinez leave, but their stance softened when United’s chief executive Richard Arnold and football director John Murtough visited Amsterdam to progress the deal last week.
Martinez is a left-footed central defender who prefers to play on the left side, and he can even deputize as a left-back. Ten Hag seemed to be preparing for his arrival even with his team selection as well as tactical instructions during United’s latest pre-season fixture with Melbourne Victory.
He ended up moving club captain Harry Maguire from his normal left centre-back role to the right, which could pave the way for the arrival of Martinez. The 24-year-old has flown to Manchester for his medical and also wanted to wrap up the remaining necessary elements to secure the transfer, such as a visa.
It is expected that Martinez will not join the United squad in Australia, where they currently have their pre-season matches, but will remain in England to join his teammates when they return on July 24.
Fabrizio Romano has also reported that paperwork have been signed between the two clubs for the transfer of Martinez. The deal will be completed for a 55 million euro fee, including add-ons, and the player will sign a five-year contract with the club.
