Manchester United in advanced talks to sign Lisandro Martinez

Manchester United are in advanced discussions with Ajax for Lisandro Martinez as they look to wrap up a deal ahead of Arsenal.

According to The Athletic, Manchester United are trying to find an agreement with Ajax for Lisandro Martinez after entering discussions with the Dutch giants. The Red Devils are trying to wrap up the deal ahead of rivals Arsenal, who have made three offers so far.

The pursuit of Lisandro Martinez is steadily becoming a hotly contested race between Arsenal and Manchester United. Arsenal moved early and saw their initial offer rejected by Ajax. However, Mikel Arteta wants the Argentine to become an important part of his setup and has directed Edu Gaspar to get the deal over the line.

Arsenal have since made two more offers, with the third bid for Martinez simply improving the financial terms of the previous proposal. But they face tough competition from Manchester United for the Argentine, who have entered advanced negotiations with Ajax over a possible transfer. New manager Erik ten Hag is considered a key component in the Red Devils’ pursuit of the 24-year-old defender.

Manchester United seem to be leading the race for the Argentine after developments in the last two days. In the last hours, the Red Devils have launched an offer to Ajax, deemed short of their valuations for Martinez, who is reportedly keen on the move.

Manchester United official proposal for Lisandro Martínez, better than Arsenal’s one but not enough yet. AFC are still there. ??? #MUFC

Man United also pushing to agree on personal terms with Lisandro – ten Hag, key factor.

Lisandro will ask Ajax to leave, as he wants PL move. pic.twitter.com/UDr9N9tqVW

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 2, 2022

The latest bid is reportedly better than what Arsenal offered but still falls short of Ajax’s demands. Manchester United are set to continue discussions with the Dutch giants, as they push to find an agreement with the Dutch side ahead of Arsenal.

The Gunners are very much in the race and could prepare a new offer to outbid Manchester United. Arteta is keen on the Argentine international and have the funds available to make a better proposal. Having missed out on Raphinha, Arsenal are keen on avoiding a similar scenario with Martinez.

However, as things stand, Manchester United are slightly ahead of Arsenal in this closely contested battle for the versatile defender’s signing. Martinez, for his part, is keen on a transfer to the Premier League. Whether he ends up at the Emirates or the Old Trafford remains to be seen.