Incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is keen on a reunion with Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez this summer, The Telegraph reports. The Dutchman wants a new central defender during the summer transfer window, and it appears he could sign a player from his former club. Jurrien Timber has been linked with the Red Devils over the past few days, but it is now reported that Martinez is the preferred target for Ten Hag.
The Argentine is a ball-playing defender with good concentration skills. Ten Hag is a huge admirer of him. He could be prised away for £30 million. Martinez missed the final phase of Ajax’s campaign with a muscle injury, but his defensive statistics have still been hugely impressive. The 24-year-old has registered nearly two tackles and two interceptions per appearance while also winning three aerial duels.
On top of this, he has completed 90 per cent of his passes. He has also excelled with his ability to clear his lines regularly. Such attributes make him an ideal fit for United. He faces a bigger challenge, but could adapt quickly due to Ten Hag’s presence. The Argentine is well versed with the one-on-one defensive tactics under Ten Hag, and may seamlessly fit in at the heart of the backline.
He is currently on the sidelines with an injury. It should not pose a concern, having barely suffered any setbacks previously in his career. The player will be very much willing to follow his now former boss to Old Trafford with high hopes that they can build the team together and enjoy a similar relationship and journey that they had they had at Ajax this season. It remains to be seen if United will seal the deal to bring the player to Old Trafford or if they will exercise some other option(s).