New Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is keen on signing Ajax centre-back Lisandro Martinez, according to the latest reports. The Dutch manager is considering moves for players who he has worked with at Ajax and has identified the Argentinian defender as a potential target ahead of the new season.
The Red Devils are looking to make a major squad overhaul next season and are considering multiple signings to bolster their squad. Ten Hag will need to address a number of critical areas in the squad, especially the defence. United have heavily struggled defensively this season.
The Dutch boss is trying to bring in reinforcements that will overcome the defensive plight. Previously, as per reports, the club showed interest in signing Ajax’s young talent Jurrien Timber. The 20-year-old was being touted as one of the primary targets in the upcoming transfer window.
Now, Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez is topping the list of potential summer targets for Manchester United. According to The Telegraph, the club is on course to secure the player’s services as Erik ten Hag feels the Argentine will apparently be an ‘ideal’ signing who would fix the leaking defence at Old Trafford. The report states that Erik is more keen on bringing Martinez to Manchester over Timber.
Erik ten Hag signed a three-year deal with Manchester United, with an option to extend his stay by a year thereafter. The Dutchman terminated his contract with the Eredivisie champions early and decided against going on their post-season tour to get a head-start at Old Trafford. The BBC quoted the 52-year-old:
“There’s a lot of work that still needs to be done. A number of things still need to be organized with the staff and also with the squad.”
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is eyeing Ajax raid for Lisandro Martinez.
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— Transferchanger (@TransferChanger) May 18, 2022
How Would Lisandro Martinez Fits Into Erik’s Plans at Manchester United?
The 24-year-old has had an incredible season for both his club and country so far. Lisandro Martinez is one of Eredivisie’s best rising centre-backs. He has been a revelation in the defence for Ajax and a key part of the Dutch side that just won back-to-back league titles. Despite that, he sometimes falls short of earning plaudits for his style of play and contributions.
Ajax brought Martinez in the summer of 2019. Since then, the Argentine has gone on to become one of the most reliable centre-halfs, amassing a host of admirers who are reportedly keen on the defender. Martinez is a versatile defender, excelling with the ball at his feet. His attacking prowess and efficient passing ability helps in the team’s build-up play.
Lisandro has the ability to anticipate dangers beforehand and be prepared. His defensive stats are astounding – 2 tackles, 1.9 interceptions and 2.8 clearances per game (stats via Who Scored). Besides that, he also has a goal to his name along with four assists in 37 appearances (stats via Transfermarkt) across all competitions.
Read More:
- Jurrien Timber or Pau Torres – Who Should be Manchester United’s Primary Target in the Summer
- Man United Revive Interest in €60m Rated Spanish Defender, Bookmarked as One of the Prime Targets This Summer
- Major Setback for United as €70m Rated Midfielder Would Turn Down Offer due to Lack of CL Football
United have had a disastrous 21/22 season, from the beginning till the end. The club are reportedly looking to offload Phil Jones and Eric Bailly in the summer. Hence, Ten Hag will certainly sign a centre-back, who he feels will be a better fit as per the standards of the English Premier League.
Lisandro Martinez has posed to be an effective defender with his speed and diligence in the Eredivisie and can step up for Manchester United next season. Although he has three years left on his current contract with Ajax, Martinez will cost around £25 million, which would be a bargain.
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