Man Utd enter ‘advanced negotiations’ as defender ‘prefers’ Old Trafford transfer over Arsenal

Man Utd are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez with Arsenal showing serious interest in the player.

The Gunners have made the highest bid for the Argentina international so far with reports claiming they have now submitted three offers for Martinez.

He was one of Ajax’s best players last season as they won the Eredivisie title under new Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag, with Martinez as he played 37 matches in all competitions.

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And The Athletic now has an update on Martinez’s future and claims the centre-back ‘prefers’ a move to Man Utd over Arsenal after the Red Devils entered ‘advanced negotiations’ over a possible transfer.

It was claimed on Tuesday that Arsenal have submitted a new €40m offer to Ajax – who will not be forced to sell for less than they want this summer – but it still falls short of the Dutch side’s valuation of the defender.

And it seems Man Utd are in the best position to seal a deal with The Athletic adding:

‘Sources say United feel they have edged ahead as favourites for the Argentina international, who spent three seasons playing under Ten Hag in the Eredivisie. Martinez has though yet to make a decision because neither United or Arsenal have yet reached agreement with Ajax. He is still on holiday.

‘Ajax are holding out for a higher fee but further talks over the weekend are expected to establish a final price.

‘Arsenal’s pursuit of Martinez continues and personal terms would not be a problem for the north London side. The issue now is which club can agree a fee with Ajax and then who Martinez decides to join.’

Dutch football expert Marcel van der Kraan recently