Erik ten Hag makes his pick between Ajax pair Lisandro Martinez and Antony in Man Utd’s transfer priority
When Erik ten Hag left Ajax to join Manchester United, the Dutch club expected a raid from their former manager.
Ten Hag, who was initially interested in Jurrien Timber, is now deciding between Lisandro Martinez and Antony, with a move for both talents off the table.
According to The Telegraph, Ten Hag would prefer to sign Martinez this summer over a move for Antony.
United have been after both talents during this transfer window, with bids for both apparently rejected by Ajax.
Because of their high valuations, United will be unable to sign both players, implying that Ten Hag would prefer to bring Martinez to Old Trafford this summer.
Ajax have charged United £68 million for Antony, which is £17 million more than the reported bid made by the Red Devils for the Brazilian.
However, United’s priority remains beating Arsenal to the signing of Martinez, since defensive reinforcements are prioritised, and hijacking a competitor is a bonus.
Antony is reported to be interested in relocating to Manchester, and the 22-year-old even suggested to Ten Hag during his farewell speech that he would always ‘be there if he needs him.’
But that decision is being made for him by Ajax, who are desperate to keep Antony at the club.
Ajax have already let Sebastien Haller, Ryan Gravenberch, and Noussair Mazraoui leave this summer, and they are under no obligation to let any more players leave.
However, Antony is more valuable than Martinez, so if one of the two leaves, it will most likely be the defender.
United will compete with Arsenal for his signature, as the Gunners are also looking to improve their defence.
Martinez is a little on the smaller side for a centre-back, but his flexibility and potential outweigh any concerns, as both Mikel Arteta and Ten Hag regard him as a valuable asset.
Arsenal’s summer window has already been far superior to United’s, with the Red Devils making just one acquisition in Tyrell Malacia while allowing 11 first-team players leave.
Signing Martinez or Antony would be a nice start, but Ten Hag has a lot of work ahead of him.
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Erik ten Hag makes his pick between Ajax pair Lisandro Martinez and Antony in Man Utd’s transfer priority
