Manchester United are prepared to make a fresh bid for defender Lisandro Martinez with Ajax willing to consider his departure, De Telegraaf’s Mike Verweij claims.
The Red Devils have been engaged in negotiations with the Dutch champions for the 24-year-old, and they are edging closer to finalising a transfer agreement.
Their recent offer of €45 million plus €5m in add-ons was not sufficient to convince Ajax, but the Eredivisie outfit have now indicated that they are open to Martinez’s exit.
Ajax are ready to part ways with the centre-back if they receive a fixed fee of €55m. United plan to ‘increase their bid’ and it remains to be seen whether they meet the price tag.
United very close to Lisandro Martinez deal
Ajax have been playing hardball over negotiations in the last few weeks, and it could be related to the recent departures of Sebastien Haller, Andre Onana among other key players.
They are reluctant to lose more stars unless their transfer valuations are met. Hence, United will need to pay a premium fee for Martinez, but it should prove a worthwhile decision.
Martinez is in the prime of his career at 24, and has excelled with his defensive attributes. He managed two tackles, 1.9 interceptions and 2.8 clearances per league game last term.
He also won over three aerial duels per appearance while completing 89 per cent of his passes. The Argentine does not have any weaknesses, judging by his recent campaign with Ajax.
Ten Hag managed him for the last three seasons at the Dutch giants. He should get the best out of the centre-back. Martinez could seamlessly slot into the line-up as he is well versed with the playing style.
In the past, United have tended to pursue players that don’t suit the manager’s philosophy, but this won’t be the case with Martinez, who has been Ten Hag’s priority defensive target.
Stats from WhoScored.com
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