A tug of war had been ensued between Arsenal and Manchester United for Lisandro Martinez who wanted to leave Ajax for Premier League experience.
Manchester United have reportedly won the battle as they have sealed the transfer of Martinez. The versatile defender has considered a reunion with former manager Erik ten Hag over a move to the Emirates.
The Red Devils have splashed £42 million plus add-ons to land the Argentine from Ajax. He will be United’s second signing of the summer, after the club earlier signed Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord.
However, though United are yet to confirm Lisandro Martinez, his personal chef has already done it. Kabir Kohli, the defender’s personal chef through an Instagram photo with Martinez labelled as ‘Farewell Dinner’ all but confirmed his United move.
Chef wanted Lisandro Martinez to stay
Kohli, along with a photo with Martinez penned a heartfelt note for the defender as well. On the other hand, Martinez seems more than excited in the photo to join his new side after completing the move.
The chef also reveals he made unsuccessful attempts of convincing Martinez to stay at Ajax for another year. Kohli tweeted, “Despite my best attempts at trying to convince #Lisandro Martinez to stay for another year at #Ajax, unfortunately it seems he’s off to #Man Utd.”
He further urged United fans to ‘take care’ of Lisandro Martinez at Old Trafford. “Man Utd fans – take care of him. He’s awesome!,” added Kabir Kohli.
Martinez has absolutely rocked his three seasons at Ajax, only improving his game through the years. The 24-year-old featured in 120 games for Ajax under Ten Hag.
Ten Hag wants to add more depth along with quality to his backline ahead of the next season. Martinez in his 24 appearances in the Eredivisie last season racked up a massive 2 tackles, 2 interceptions, 3.3 aerial duels and 5.4 long-balls per game.
United are set to be with Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof in the center-back department for next season, with Eric Bailly, Phil Jones and Alex Tuanzebe all expected to leave.
Meanwhile, the incoming center-back Martinez can also ply his trade as a left-back if needed. Ten Hag will now move to midfield reinforcements as he pushes the club the to sign Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.