The Manchester Evening News understands that deals have been agreed in principle to bring Frenkie de Jong and Tyrell Malacia to Manchester United. While Erik ten Hag will be keen to get his first deals over the line, he certainly won't be stopping there with a whole host of other areas of his squad to address.
A new centre-back is on the cards, with the likes of Pau Torres and David Carmo on United's radar. But in recent weeks it has seemed more likely that Ten Hag could return to Ajax in his pursuit of a centre-back.
Jurrien Timber had been heavily linked with a move, but the uncertainty over what impact this would have on his place in the Netherlands squad ahead of the World Cup in November has seemingly turned him against a move to Old Trafford. But now, United could reportedly turn to his centre-back partner, Lisandro Martinez.
ALSO READ: Manchester United agree deals to sign Frenkie de Jong and Tyrell Malacia
Martinez was part of Ten Hag's title-winning side last season and since joining Ajax in 2019, has been deployed at left-back, centre-back and defensive midfield. His form and growing reputation, however, have also attracted the attention of Arsenal who have lodged two separate bids.
Despite Arsenal's interest, it seems United could beat the London club to the punch, according to talkSPORT. They have reported that United are set to launch a £40million bid - £5m more than the offer made by Arsenal. They also believe the 24-year-old's preference would be to play under Ten Hag again.
United fans have been quick to revel in Arsenal's potential misfortune, especially as it seems they may be about to miss out on another of their top targets following Raphinha's reported decision to move to Chelsea. They made their thoughts about the potential hijacking and also the transfer itself known on social media:
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