Lisandro Martínez linked with Atletico Madrid as United weigh up options
The Argentine defender has been reportedly offered to the Spanish side amid concerns over his injury record and contract situation.
Manchester United could face a difficult decision over Lisandro Martínez after reports emerged linking the Argentine centre-back with a move to Atlético Madrid. Spanish media indicate that the defender has been put forward to the La Liga side while away on international duty, though it remains unclear whether United initiated the approach or if intermediaries are testing the market.
Martínez remains highly regarded at Old Trafford for his aggression, leadership and ability to play progressive passes from defence. Those qualities have made him a trusted figure under manager Michael Carrick, who has consistently backed the 28-year-old in public. Yet his time at the club has been punctuated by recurring injury setbacks, preventing him from building consistent momentum despite his undeniable importance when fit.
Contract situation adds to uncertainty
The defender’s original deal, signed upon his arrival from Ajax in 2022, runs until June 2027 with an option for a further season. That extension clause gives United breathing room, but it also means the club cannot afford to let speculation linger deep into the new campaign. With only one guaranteed year remaining, talks over a longer-term future must become a priority if no formal offer arrives from Madrid.
United’s defensive planning has already come under scrutiny, and selling an influential figure without a clear replacement would create another problem in a squad Carrick is still rebuilding. Martínez’s personality and vocal presence in the backline are not easily replicated, and the club would likely reject any approach unless Atlético submit a substantial bid and the player himself pushes for an exit.
The bigger concern remains availability. Martínez has missed significant stretches of football over the past three seasons, and his injury record has at times undermined his ability to form a consistent partnership. Carrick continues to defend him strongly, most notably after a controversial red card last season, but the physical toll of the Premier League and international football has raised questions about how much United can rely on him going forward.
Spanish reports, via latest news coming out of the capital, suggest that Atlético are aware of the situation and have been made aware that Martínez could be available. However, no formal proposal has been submitted, and United are not under immediate financial pressure to sell. The smartest move would be to trigger the extension clause and open renewal discussions, retaining control while assessing whether the defender can stay fit for a full campaign.
Any departure would still surprise many inside the club given the bond between player and manager. But with contract timelines and fitness records colliding, the coming months could define the next chapter for both Martínez and United’s long-term defensive structure.