Both Premier League sides are looking for new centre-backs to help their respective teams progress. The Gunners have progressed under Mikel Arteta and are looking to finally get over the line back into the Champions League. United, meanwhile, finished sixth last year and. As such, Martinez would serve as a starting point for Erik ten Hag’s new project. Both Arsenal and Manchester United are firmly in the hunt for the 24-year-old Argentine. Arsenal first went with a bid of £25m, then upped the ante to £35m and then around £40m. Man Utd have also submitted a £40m bid, with the two sides closing in on Ajax’s £45m valuation. Further reports have claimed that Martinez is excited by the plans Arsenal and Arteta have for him. And considering the serious financial games from both Premier League suitors, the Evening Standard now report that Martinez has stepped up his efforts to move away. Indeed, the Argentina international has told Ajax he has a strong desire to move to the Premier League. For now, however, he is not forcing a move, with it likely that either Arsenal or United will eventually sign him. The paper adds that both sides plan to hold fresh talks over a deal for Martinez this week. They want a deal done before their respective pre-season tours begin so the centre-back can sleep alone. Martinez is 5ft 9in and so the shorter end of the centre-back height scale. However, Arsenal reportedly believe he can prove an asset at left-back and at the base of their midfield.
Lisandro Martinez’s transfer hunt is coming to an end
It seems only a matter of time before either Man Utd or Arsenal raise the desired cash for Martinez. He is an exciting prospect and United and Arsenal need only look to Tottenham Hotspur for a blossoming Argentine defender in the Premier League, with Cristian Romero impressing for Antonio Conte. Both United and Arsenal have set a deadline and whoever wins the race for Martinez will be all the better for it.
Ajax defender in high demand
Ajax centre-back Lisandro Martinez is being targeted by both Arsenal and Manchester United as the two clubs look set to battle it out for the highly-rated player’s signature. Arsenal got it right last season with Ben White and Gabriel Magalhaes. But while they have been lucky with injuries, White’s absence has been felt at the back end of the campaign. United, meanwhile, ended the season with their worst goals conceded tally in Premier League history. Martinez’s role in Ten Hag’s plan would be clear – to strengthen the defense.
