Manchester United set to beat Arsenal in Lisandro Martinez race | OneFootball

Manchester United have jumped to the front of the queue to acquire the services of Lisandro Martinez, according to The Mirror.

United are currently involved in a bidding war with Arsenal for the defender who is largely expected to move to the Premier League this summer.

Having increased their latest offer to a total package worth £39.6 million which is £6m more than Arsenal’s last bid, The Red Devils are now in pole position for Martinez’s signature.

Erik ten Hag’s men also held talks with Ajax’s new director of football Klaas-Jan Huntelaar over the weekend and a deal for Martinez is now reportedly close to being struck.

The Argentine could become the second new arrival at Old Trafford from the Eredivisie this summer as Tyrell Malacia is set to finalise a move to the red half of Manchester from Feyenoord later this week.

Martinez has worked with ten Hag for the last three campaigns and won the Player of the Season award last time out so it is no surprise to see the Dutch manager eye a reunion with one of his trusted lieutenants.

Capable of filling in at centre-back, left-back and in the middle of the park, Martinez’s versatility is part of what makes him such a valuable asset and a man in demand.

Meanwhile, United are also in talks with Ajax over a move for Antony but de Godenzonen’s asking price of £70m is the major stumbling block at the moment with the Brazilian believed to be keen on joining forces with his former manager.

However, Frenkie de Jong remains the prime target at the Theatre of Dreams and while the midfielder is keen to remain at Barcelona, the La Liga giants could be forced to sanction a sale due to their current financial challenges.