Premier League giants Manchester United are close to a second summer signing, having reached an agreement with Dutch Eredivisie powerhouse AFC Ajax Amsterdam for the purchase of defender Lisandro Martinez.
The Argentine had missed training on Thursday as both clubs ironed out the structure of payments on the £46million, transfer and he is now ready to link up with his new team mates in Australia for pre-season.
United’s director of football John Murtough and chief executive Richard Arnold held extensive talks with Ajax counterparts Edwin van der Sar, Gerry Hamstra and Klaas Jan Huntelaar on Wednesday before returning to Manchester. Further talks followed on Thursday to iron out finer details and a deal is now in place.
Lisandro had made it clear to Ajax that he wanted to fulfil his dream of moving to the Premier League this summer and will reunite with his former boss Erik Ten Hag with whom he has a strong bond.
Lisandro’s determination to make the move happen was key with Ajax initially reluctant to sell the 24 year-old who was the club’s Player of the Year last season.
They rejected offers from Arsenal and Manchester United at first, but Lisandro intervened when it became clear the Red Devils were serious in their pursuit and the player received assurances from manager Erik Ten Hag.
Apex Football News 