Manchester United are on the verge of signing Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez after Ajax ‘recognised defeat’ in their battle to keep him this summer. Erik ten Hag, on the other hand, may be presented with a difficult decision when he reunites with Martinez at Old Trafford!
United executives flew from Barcelona to Amsterdam to finalise a deal for up to £46 million, including add-ons.
Martinez’s eagerness to pursue a move to the Premier League has contributed to Ajax’s willingness to return to the negotiating table.
While bringing in a good player who is familiar with Ten Hag’s play style and philosophy is a huge benefit for Ten Hag, Martinez’s entrance comes with a bitter aftertaste.
After a fantastic season at Ajax, the 24-year-old’s adaptability will likely be one of his most appealing qualities to suitors. However, it has sparked much disagreement among United fans as to where he would fit into Ten Hag’s plans.
Martinez is predominantly a center-back who prefers to play on the left side, where Harry Maguire frequently plays with Raphael Varane or Victor Lindelof.
But, after naming Maguire as his captain after much discussion, it would be surprise if he didn’t consider him a regular starter.
Raphael Varane is the standout prospect to accompany Maguire at the heart of the defence, and after a lacklustre first season in England, he is perhaps United’s best center-back.
Ten Hag will have to pick which established name he must drop to accommodate Martinez in his natural position at Old Trafford!
The Argentine has also impressed as a left-back under Ten Hag, although United have plenty of options in that position too.
Tyrell Malacia, the Red Devils’ solitary summer addition thus far, was brought in to compete with Luke Shaw. Alex Telles and Brandon Williams are on the market but serve as other left-back possibilities for the time being.
It begs the question then, whether Ten Hag is recruiting Martinez to supplement his midfield-focused recruitment approach!
Martinez displays great tenacity, eye-catching passing range, and a powerful leap that helped him win 71% of his aerial duels in the Dutch Eredivisie last season.
Ten Hag might use Martinez as his second midfield pivot if United’s pursuit of Frenkie de Jong fails.
Ten Hag is unlikely to utilise him as a rotational player given the sum United paid to acquire him to the club. Fans may get their first view of Martinez in action on the pre-season tour to Australia, where his primary role may become evident.
