MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly confident of beating Arsenal to signing Lisandro Martinez after meeting with Ajax chiefs.
The Red Devils are claimed to have offered just shy of £40million for the Argentinian defender.
Ajax’s new director of football Klaas-Jan Huntelaar travelled to London on Saturday to meet with United representatives, according to the Mirror.
And after discussions with the former Netherlands striker, United are claimed to be confident of beating Arsenal in the race to sign Martinez.
United are said to have lodged a bid worth an initial £35.3m, with a further £4.3m available in add-ons.
The total package works out at £39.6m, with Ajax understood to value Martinez at £43m.
The fact Huntelaar travelled to London to meet United chiefs and the two clubs are locked in advanced negotiations suggests a deal could be close.
It’s said talks between the two parties progressed well and there is the belief Martinez will sign in time to jet out to Bangkok on Friday for the club’s pre-season tour to Thailand and Australia.
United boss Erik ten Hag is keen on a reunion with his former defender, although full-back Tyrell Malacia is set to become the new gaffer’s first confirmed signing after being spotted at Carrington.
Arsenal though are also understood to be keen on a swoop for Argentina international Martinez.
The Gunners have had THREE bids rejected for the defender – the most recent of those being worth £34m.
Elsewhere Arsenal have this morning confirmed the signing of Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City in a £45m deal.
The Brazilian has taken the No9 shirt at the Emirates after Alexandre Lacazette quit the club on a free transfer.
