Manchester United are reportedly ready to offer Lisandro Martinez a new contract to stave off interest from Real Madrid and PSG. The Argentine defender has just over two years left on his current deal at Old Trafford.
CaughtOffside reports that the Red Devils are attempting to fastrack contract negotiations with Martinez to keep him at the club. He's endured a difficult season but is viewed as part of the long-term project.
Martinez, 26, arrived at United from Ajax in July 2022 for around €57.3 million. He's made 79 appearances, scoring one goal and providing one assist. A serious injury suffered last season has been problematic and hindered his progress with the Reds.
PSG and Real Madrid both interested in Lisandro Martinez
Manchester United are in a hurry to get Martinez to extend his stay at Old Trafford as two of Europe's heavyweights are keeping tabs. The report claims there is 'intense interest' being shown by PSG and Madrid in the Argentina international.
Martinez has receieved criticsm this season for questionable performances at the back. He's appeared 20 times across competitions, helping the team keep six clean sheets.
Amorim is using Martinez in his three at the back system, on the left hand side of the defense. He also put in a shift at left-back occasionally under Erik ten Hag until the Dutchman's sacking in November. The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner was key for United in their Carabao Cup triumph in 2023, forging a formidable partnership with Raphael Varane.
Martinez initially fell in love with United
Martinez's struggles this season have been unfortunate as he was a stalwart in his debut campaign at United. He lived up to his 'Butcher' nickname with no-nonsense displays at the back and his passionate characteristics were a massive hit with fans.
The Old Trafford faithful would chant Argentina in recognition of their Argentine defensive brute. He spoke about the love he'd receieved from fans at the time (via Manchester Evening News):
“For me it is a huge pride to play for Manchester United, in the best league in the world, that people feel identified with me... it makes me give everything on the field. I get goosebumps when they chant '”Argentina, Argentina'.”
Lisandro Martinez was loving the “Argentina” chant from the @ManUtd fans 🇦🇷#EmiratesFACup https://t.co/Kbp3ffpo16 pic.twitter.com/a3RUpGUFjn
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) May 25, 2024
Martinez may just need to get over his injury troubles and get a run of games under his belt to return to his best. He'll be expected to play in the Manchester Derby on Sunday against Manchester City at the Etihad.