LONDON (AFP) – Manchester United on Wednesday completed the signing of Argentina defender Lisandro Martinez from Ajax for a fee that could reach nearly GBP57 million.
The 24-year-old, who won two Eredivisie titles under new United boss Erik ten Hag in Amsterdam, has signed a contract until 2027 at Old Trafford, with the option of a further 12 months.
Ajax said they had agreed a transfer fee of EUR57.37 million with United. Including variables, that amount could increase to EUR67.37 million.
“It’s an honour to join this great football club,” the centre-back told United’s website.
“I’ve worked so hard to get to this moment and, now that I’m here, I’m going to push myself even further.
“I’ve been lucky enough to be part of successful teams in my career and that’s what I want to continue at Manchester United.
“There will be a lot of work to get to that moment, but I firmly believe that, under this manager and coaches, and together with my new team-mates, we can do it.”
Martinez, who began his career at Newell’s Old Boys and also played for Argentine side Defensa y Justicia, won the 2021 Copa America with his country and has been capped seven times at international level.
He is the third signing of the Ten Hag era following the capture of left-back Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord and the free transfer of former Brentford and Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen.