Manchester United target Lisandro Martinez has criticised Virgil van Dijk when asked about which defender he is similar to.
MEN Sport reported on Saturday that United had made a £37m offer for Martinez as Erik ten Hag looks to strengthen his central defence and defensive midfield options with the versatile Ajax star. United had been looking at Jurrien Timber in this window, however it seems that the club have switched their priority towards his teammate.
Martinez was asked recently about which defender he sees himself most like. According to Transfermarkt, the Argentine is just 5ft 7ins, which would make him one of the smaller players in United's squad.
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However, the centre back does not see height as a factor in being a good defender. He explained via the Daily Mirror : "[Fabio] Cannavaro was comfortable on the ball.
"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." Reports in the Netherlands suggested that Martinez has his 'hopes pinned' on joining Ten Hag at Old Trafford this summer.
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