Arsenal and Manchester United appear to be embroiled in a battle to sign Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez this summer. However, the Argentina international’s relationship with new United boss Erik ten Hag could give them the advantage in the race.
Martinez could be one of a few signings in a busy summer for the Gunners. Mikel Arteta has already made quick work to make a number of additions to strengthen his squad after missing out on Champions League football.
Three players have already been confirmed for the next campaign, with Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus expected to be number four in the coming days. While the Brazilian solves a problem in the centre-forward role, there are still other issues that have to be addressed.
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Most notably, the left-side of defence is a dilemma when it comes to quality in depth. Kieran Tierney’s battle against injuries last season saw Arteta constantly mixing and matching his side to find the best solution in the Scotsman’s absence, while there are few options beyond Gabriel on that side at centre-back.
Martinez has been linked with an option to solve that problem, being able to play both positions as well as a deeper midfield role. The Gunners appear to be battling Manchester United to his signature, with both clubs having bids rejected from Ajax
However, the 24-year-old has previously played under new United boss Erik ten Hag and sent him a message after his departure. He said in an emotional farewell video: “Hi Erik, I want to say thanks for everything.
“With you, I learned a lot about football. You made me a better player. You leave like a champion. You deserve it."
That’s not all though, as the defender has been full of praise for his former coach since his exit: “I am so proud of what I have achieved at Ajax and under Ten Hag.
"I grew as a player and became an Argentinian international thanks to my development at Ajax.”
It remains to be seen who the Argentinian defender would choose if given the chance this summer, but that trust built with ten Hag could prove a decisive factor.
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