How Manchester United could line up with Lisandro Martinez in three different positions

Lisandro Martinez is in England for his medical ahead of a proposed £46million transfer to Manchester United.

Erik ten Hag made signing a new centre-back one of his main priorities this summer, and Martinez will become the Reds' third acquisition of the window following the arrivals of left-back Tyrell Malacia and midfielder Christian Eriksen.

Martinez is predominantly a centre-back, but that is not the only position he can play in. The Argentine also has experience playing at left-back and as a holding midfielder. Here are three ways United could utilise the defender next season.

READ MORE: Martinez flies in to complete medical

Martinez in central defence

The most obvious role for Martinez next season would be as part of a defensive partnership with either Harry Maguire or Raphael Varane.

In an ideal world, it would be alongside Varane, but given his worrying injury record, it might be more likely that we see him play alongside the current club captain.

Ten Hag is keen Martinez because he is left-footed and has a great passing range to help them play out from the back, so it makes sense to stick him in the squad as the left-sided central defender.

Martinez at full-back

Versatility is a big advantage for Martinez and he also has the possibility of filling in at left-back if required, though that seems a rather unlikely outcome amid Malacia's arrival.

Martinez could be viewed as the third-choice left-back if Alvaro Fernandez leaves on loan this summer and Alex Telles is sold, so he could still get the occasional appearance there.

It is more likely those minutes would come as part of a tactical switch during a match rather than being chosen to play there from the start, but it is certainly a good trait to have.

Martinez in