Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez has said that he would not like to be compared to Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk as speculation continues to mount over a potential move to the Premier League.
Both Manchester United and Arsenal are reportedly in talks with Dutch giants Ajax to sign the Argentinian defender. Described as a ball-playing centreback, Martinez can also play defensive midfield and left back. Ajax are eyeing a deal worth over £40m for their 2021/22 player of the year.
At just 5ft 9in, Martinez isn't the tallest of defenders but has likened his style of play to former Italian World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro. But in doing so, Martinez made sure to clarify that he is nothing like Reds defender Van Dijk and claimed that the Dutch star's height is 'worth nothing' when 'you don't have the other qualities.'
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"[Fabio] Cannavaro was comfortable on the ball," Martinez told the Daily Mirror. "And, despite his lack of height, he challenged for every ball as if it was the last tackle to win the game. I loved that style – and I am just like him.
"I would prefer not to be like Virgil van Dijk. His height is certainly a big plus, but when you don’t have the other qualities, it is worth nothing.
"My favourite position is definitely central defence. I started out as a midfielder, but I learned all the qualities for a central defender who plays in an attacking team under Ten Hag. I can look after myself."
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