Arsenal ahead of Manchester United in race to sign versatile Ajax man Lisandro Martinez after submitting second bid for Argentine international

Arsenal have leapt ahead of Manchester United in the race to sign Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez, talkSPORT understands.

The big-spending Premier League side are awaiting a response from Ajax after tabling a second bid worth £35million for Martinez.

3

3

The Argentine international has made more than 100 appearances for the Dutch side and has shown his versatility, playing in four different positions since joining in 2019.

Despite being just 5ft 9in, he predominantly played as a centre-back last season, but has also played at left-back, right-back, and defensive midfield.

His ability to play in various positions would make him a useful addition to the Gunners' squad, whether as a starter or a squad player for manager Mikel Arteta.

Martinez was a part of the Ajax side that has won back-to-back Eredivise titles over the last couple of seasons.

New Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag worked with him during his time in the Netherlands and is said to be keen to reunite with him at Old Trafford - but that now looks unlikely.

Arteta has already brought three players to the club this summer, with US goalkeeper Matt Turner, Brazilian youngster Marquinhos and Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira joining the north Londoners.

Most read in Football

Man United fans rage at Andre Onana as goalkeeper's error leads to Sheffield United goal

United fans mock Jurgen Klopp with chant during game as Liverpool falter against Everton

Everton 2-0 Liverpool LIVE REACTION: Toffees end Reds title dreams in Klopp's final derby

Liverpool fans will love how Arne Slot reacted to Antony's antics in Eredivisie

3

Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus looks set to be the next player to make the move to the Emirates Stadium, with the Brazilian pictured arriving for his medical.

The forward has agreed a £45million move from Man City and was in London on Tuesday to put the finishing touches to the deal.

Arteta will be hoping another transfer window of big spending will help them qualify for the Champions League next season, something they narrowly missed out on in the 2021/22 campaign.