Manchester United and Ajax reach an agreement for Lisandro Martinez’s transfer

Ajax coach Erik ten Hag
Ajax coach Erik ten Hag | Photo Credit: IMAGO

Manchester United have reached an agreement with Ajax for the transfer of highly rated defender Lisandro Martinez.

The Argentine international is one of the main targets of Manchester United this summer and was also a transfer target of Arsenal.

But the Old Trafford side have now won the race for his signature, having tabled an acceptable offer to Ajax. The Dutch champions announced that United will pay €57.37m (£48.8m) for the 24-year-old, potentially rising to €67.37m (£57.4m) with add-ons.

He becomes the third signing of the Erik ten Hag era, after Tyrell Malacia and Christian Eriksen, with United identifying the utility man as their priority defensive target some time ago.

Despite interest from Arsenal, Martinez was always eager to join United in order to link back up with former Ajax manager Ten Hag.

Manchester United issued a statement to confirm the deal. “Manchester United is delighted to announce the club has reached an agreement with Ajax for the transfer of Argentine international defender Lisandro Martinez, subject to medical, player terms being finalised, and to UK visa requirements.”

Ajax also released a statement confirming the transfer fee: “Ajax and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the transfer of Lisandro Martínez,” it read.

“The transfer is still subject to a medical examination and the contractual agreement of both clubs with the player. The defender is still under contract with Ajax until June 30, 2025. Ajax agreed on a transfer fee of € 57.37 million with the English side. That amount can increase to € 67.37 million through variables.”

Along with fellow new arrival, Christian Eriksen, Martinez will not be joining up with Man United’s touring squad in Australia once the deal is complete.