Manchester United are understood to have some 'serious concerns' about the future of Lisandro Martinez, and they have a golden opportunity to get a deal done to upgrade on him this summer.
Reports have emerged that following Martinez's recent red card against Leeds and previous injury record, INEOS are concerned about how often he is available as he prepares to enter the final 12 months of his contract at Old Trafford.
That could see the club decide to cash in if the right offer arrives for the Argentina international, while they could also proactively replace him if the right opportunity arises, with the club currently prioritising strengthening their midfield, left-back, and left-wing positions instead.
Man Utd Get Green Light for Inacio Deal
Goncalo Inacio celebrates for Sporting
Goncalo Inacio celebrates for Goncalo Inacio
Reports emerged this week that the Red Devils have been given the green light to complete a deal for Sporting CP star Goncalo Inacio this summer.
The Portugal international has a £52m release clause in his contract with the Lisbon club, and after attracting big interest in recent transfer windows, the Portuguese club are not expected to try to stand in his way should someone make their move.
United are one of the clubs strongly linked with his signature, and it now makes sense if the reports of Martinez's demise behind the scenes are true.
Described as 'exceptional' and 'the best defender outside the top five leagues', Inacio's ability on the ball is a big reason why he is so highly-rated around Europe, and his age profile means he is ready to walk into any club in Europe and become a regular starter.
That includes Man Utd, and Martinez's potential exit means that there may be a spot open for a left-sided centre-back who can control the tempo of a game and help to build attacks from deep.
Inacio Would Be Martinez Upgrade
Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez staring
Martinez has been a top player for Man Utd since arriving from Ajax, but his issues with fitness and discipline have certainly been something that the club need to consider as he enters the last year of his contract.
Inacio's fitness and discipline records are impeccable, and at just 25 he is ready to step up and continue to improve even further and potentially go on to become one of the best defenders in the world.
With Maguire signing a new contract, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven seen as the future, and Matthijs De Ligt having his own fitness problems, Inacio could be the perfect option to come in, and the club have been given the green light to get a deal done that could improve them next season.
Manchester United caretaker manager Michael Carrick claps the fans Related
Forget Senesi: Man Utd More Likely to Sign Premier League ‘Monster’ This Summer
Manchester United are not planning to join the transfer battle for out-of-contract Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi.