Man United defender Lisandro Martinez has been offered to European giants

Open menu

OneFootball's home page

Settings

caughtoffside

15 July 2026

Manchester United’s defensive planning has come under fresh scrutiny after reports in Spain linked one of Michael Carrick’s most trusted centre-backs with Atlético Madrid.

The Argentine remains highly regarded at Old Trafford, but his injury record and contract situation mean the club may eventually face a difficult decision.

A departure would still be surprising. His aggression, leadership and ability to play progressive passes from defence give United qualities that are not easily replaced.

However, with only one guaranteed year remaining on his deal, the club cannot completely ignore outside interest or allow uncertainty to continue deep into the new season.

According to

El Chiringuito TV

Lisandro Martínez

has been offered to Atlético Madrid while representing Argentina at the World Cup.

The report does not clarify whether United initiated the approach, whether intermediaries are testing the market or whether Atlético intend to submit a formal proposal.

Martínez’s original transfer announcement on Man United’s

official website

confirmed that he signed until June 2027, with the club holding an option to extend his contract for another season.

That clause means United are not under immediate pressure to sell, although discussions about his longer-term future should become a priority.

The biggest concern remains his availability. Martínez has endured several significant injury setbacks since arriving from Ajax, preventing him from building consistent momentum despite his importance when fit.

Carrick has continued to support him publicly.

Sky Sports

showed the United manager strongly defending Martínez following a controversial red card in April, underlining the trust that appears to exist between the pair.

United should reject any approach unless Atlético submit a major offer and Martínez makes it clear that he wants to leave.

When fully fit, he remains one of the club’s best defenders and provides personality that would be difficult to replace.

The smartest move would be to retain control through the extension clause and begin renewal talks. Selling an influential defender without a clear replacement would create another problem in a squad Carrick is still rebuilding.

Lisandro Martinez offered the chance to join Atletico Madrid

The Peoples Person

Argentine media react to Lisandro Martinez’s performance against Switzerland: “Trouble free”

Lisandro Martinez helps Argentina reach World Cup semi-final

Lisandro Martinez: United star’s bold take on World Cup refereeing

Argentina starter bats away controversy and praises Copa referees 🗣️

OneFootball

Predicting which clubs the summer's biggest free agents will sign for

There are still some massive names who are set to become free agents in the summer, with some high-profile deals due to expire at the end of next month.As speculation...

Tottenham: Why James Maddison was not awarded a penalty against Leeds as Premier League issue statement

Spurs midfielder denied a big moment on his return from injuryThe Premier League has explained why Tottenham were not awarded a penalty in their draw against Leeds.As the clock ticked...

Bento's howler delays CR7's first title in Saudi Arabia 😱

An ugly mistake by Brazilian goalkeeper Bento prevented Al-Nassr from winning the Saudi League title this Tuesday.Cristiano Ronaldo’s team was leading 1-0 until the 53rd minute of the second half,...