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Lisandro Martinez has reportedly reached a preliminary agreement over a move away from Manchester United, with Atletico Madrid leading the race to sign the Argentine centre-back before contract talks drag the situation into a longer saga.
Red Card Adds to a Grim Run
Martinez was sent off during the weekend defeat to Chelsea, a result that extended Manchester United‘s losing run to three straight matches under manager Michael Carrick. The dismissal capped a difficult few weeks for the defender, arriving shortly after he criticized the club’s hierarchy as results continue to slide at Old Trafford.
From Ajax Hero to Uncertain Future
United paid £57 million to sign Martinez from Ajax in 2022, fending off competition from Arsenal to land the defender. Erik ten Hag, who had worked with Martinez at the Johan Cruyff Arena, pushed hard for the reunion.
Martinez produced strong performances at times across four seasons in Manchester, though questions over his height, he stands 5ft 9in, have followed him throughout his spell in English football.
Dropped, Substituted, and Sidelined
Recent weeks have only heightened doubts over his long-term place in the squad. He was hauled off at half-time against Leeds United, left out of the matchday squad entirely for the clash with Como, and limited to a substitute appearance in the loss to Bournemouth.
Atletico Madrid Move to the Front
Spanish outlet Fichajes reports that insiders close to the negotiations say Martinez has struck a preliminary agreement on personal terms with Atletico Madrid.
His contract runs until 2027, with United holding the option to extend for another year, giving the club a sensible window to cash in while value remains high. The player is said to be unhappy at Carrington, and La Liga sides have taken notice of his availability.
Barcelona have also been linked with interest, having used Frenkie De Jong as an emergency centre-back option for manager Hansi Flick in recent weeks.
Still Some Distance From a Final Deal
No full agreement for an exit has been reached yet. Both player and club appear ready to part ways as soon as a suitable arrangement can be found.
The Rojiblancos “have to decide whether to try to bring the move forward into the winter transfer window or wait until the summer,” with financial considerations cited as the reason for holding off on a January move.
Transfermarkt values Martinez at €45 million. United face Roma in the Champions League this week, with the Argentine’s future set to remain a talking point throughout.
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Stay with TipsGG for the latest transfer news and match coverage as the Martinez saga develops.