Man United receive Lisandro Martinez transfer bombshell as Ruben Amorim feelings clear

Man United receive Lisandro Martinez transfer bombshell as Ruben Amorim feelings clear

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez is reportedly a target for Serie A giants Napoli despite his injury troubles over the last couple of years

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez (Image: Getty Images )

Napoli have set their sights on Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez - despite the player's recent injury struggles. The Argentine defender missed significant parts of last season due to a serious knee injury which saw him sidelined.

The 27-year-old featured in 32 matches across all competitions for United after new signings Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt increased the competition for his position. Now, it seems United must contemplate Martinez's future at the club.

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Reports from Italy (via the Mirror.) suggest that Napoli, who recently clinched the Serie A title, have shortlisted Martinez as a potential recruit this summer. Napoli's sporting director Giovanni Manna is said to be an admirer of Martinez and is not overly concerned about his fitness issues.

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Martinez is among several players Napoli are considering as they prepare to defend their league title next season. This interest follows their successful acquisition of Scott McTominay last summer, who was instrumental in their Scudetto victory.

United manager Ruben Amorim has spoken highly of Martinez, commending his commitment to the team: "If you let him, he can go play today without problem," he said.

"Because he loves the club, he wants to help the team, he understands the context. Like I said, he's a great character, he's really important in the dressing room."

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While Martinez has shared his enthusiasm for working under Amorim in United's matchday programme, writing: "It's the way I like to play, the way of playing football - the passion, the energy. You know, if you have that with me, it's like you connect quickly.

"He [Amorim] has many, many good things. I think he demands what the club demands, which is good. I like his passion, his energy, the way he wants to play - good in possession, in defending. I think he's good - also the staff, the energy around the place, it has been so good, yeah."

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Martinez made the switch to United from Ajax during summer 2022 for a £56.7 million fee, reuniting with Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford and becoming an integral part of the team during his first season.

Injuries have limited his impact in recent times but he still has two years remaining on his current contract. Any defensive departure at United would follow those of Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof.

With players such as De Ligt, Yoro, Harry Maguire, and upcoming talent Ayden Heaven, United could still look to reinforce their defence even if Martinez stays put.

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