Arsenal's hopes of signing Lisandro Martinez from Ajax have taken a massive hit as Premier League rivals Manchester United are now confident of signing the Argentine defender.
Arsenal are said to have had two bids turned down so far. It's believed that Ajax want €50million (£43million) for his signature but no agreement has been reached yet.
One particular reason Arsenal are interested in Martinez is because of his ability to play multiple positions, namely central defence, left-back and defensive midfield.
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Mikel Arteta has problems on the left-hand side on the left of the back four, with Kieran Tierney’s battles against injury causing issues in the previous campaign. Add to that the lack of left-sided centre-back options beyond Gabriel and it’s an area that needs addressing.
Although Arsenal plan to play Martinez principally on the defensive flank, having managed the Argentine at Ajax, Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag may think he's a better option centrally, hence why they're also interested in signing him.
The Gunners were favourites to sign the 24-year-old for some time, but now, as per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, United are confident about completing the signing.
"Manchester United are now feeling confident on Lisandro Martínez deal. Ajax are open to discuss on the fee, new contacts expected very soon after bid rejected last week," Romano said on Twitter. "Lisandro, pushing again with Ajax to leave the club this summer."
Arsenal saw Martinez as their primary defensive target heading into the window, but they may need to direct their attention elsewhere if a proposed switch from Amsterdam to Manchester gathers pace.
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