Manchester United have reportedly made a £37 million bid for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez, and the Red Devils appear likely to beat Arsenal to the Argentinian’s signature.
It has been a slow start to the summer transfer window for Erik ten Hag’s side, but they are now making progress with several targets.
Reports on Saturday said that a deal for Feyenoord left-back Tyrell Malacia could be completed over the weekend, and Martinez could soon follow.
The Manchester Evening News writes that a €43m (£37m) bid has been submitted to Ajax for the centre-back.
Arsenal were also interested and had two bids rejected, which encouraged United to make a move.
Villarreal defender Pau Torres and Braga’s David Carmo are also on United’s defensive shortlist.
According to the Athletic, United and Ajax are in “advanced negotiations” for Martinez.
They say the 24-year-old would prefer to join up with his former coach Ten Hag at Old Trafford than move to Arsenal.
But the Argentina international hasn’t made a decision yet, as he’s still away on holiday and is awaiting news from his current employers.
Ten Hag’s players returned for pre-season training this week, but there are still no new signings in the door at Old Trafford.
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New Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has been speaking to the press as he takes control of the Red Devils. The 52-year-old has confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo remains a part of his plans heading into next season, while suggesting that he may need patience to transform Old Trafford in his image.
There could be plenty of incomings: Frenkie de Jong remains a key target at £67.5m, while Raphinha of Leeds is on the radar. Jurrien Timber is one name heavily linked, while United are long-term admirers of Lazio man Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
One slightly leftfield potential buy would be Christian Eriksen from Brentford, who is out of contract following the end of the season.
