Arsenal to move quickly in attempt to beat Manchester United to Lisandro Martinez

Arsenal are hoping to move quickly in the race for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez, who is also wanted by Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.

Arsenal have identified the 24-year-old as their top defensive target this summer and their latest offer is understood to be worth around £35 million, rising to almost £40m with add-ons.

But they are likely to face strong competition from United for Martinez’s signature, with Ten Hag thought to be keen on adding his former player to his defensive options at Old Trafford.

A bidding war between the two clubs would suit Ajax, who are in no rush to sell the Argentina international in a summer window in which they have already agreed the departures of Sebastien Haller and Ryan Gravenberch for a total of around £50m.

Martinez was Ajax’s player of the year under Ten Hag last season and the new United manager is understood to be pushing for the club to compete with Arsenal for the defender’s signature. 

There is a feeling in Holland that Arsenal are hoping to swiftly conclude a deal for Martinez while United focus their attention on finalising the transfers of Frenkie de Jong, the Barcelona midfielder, and Feyenoord full-back Tyrell Malacia. 

Martinez is a versatile defensive option who is especially appealing because he is left-footed. Arteta is hoping to add another left-sided defender to his backline and Martinez is capable of playing as a centre-back, left-back and even as a defensive midfielder. 

If Arsenal can win the race for Martinez, it would allow young left-back Nuno Tavares to leave the club on loan this summer. Tavares filled in as Kieran Tierney’s deputy last season, with mixed results, and has caught the attention of Marseille. 

Arsenal have had a busy start to the