Manchester United are set to trigger the 12-month extension clause in Lisandro Martinez's contract to protect their ability to sell the Argentine defender, according to reports. The move comes as the club prepares to reshape its backline, with Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite a reported target.
Martinez's Future at Old Trafford
Martinez, who joined United from Ajax in 2022 for £56 million under Erik ten Hag, has been linked with a departure after publicly criticising the club's hierarchy for a lack of investment in the squad. His own form has faced scrutiny, and he has spent significant periods sidelined through injury.
With his contract expiring this summer, his recurring fitness issues and the public criticism had made an exit seem inevitable. Atletico Madrid showed interest in the summer, and the Daily Mail reports that United will now trigger the extension clause to ensure they can command a fee for the 28-year-old.
Defensive Reinforcements Targeted
United have long monitored Jarrad Branthwaite, with previous offers reaching £50 million rejected by Everton. The club could revive that interest in the summer transfer window. Branthwaite has become a key figure at Goodison Park and could strengthen a United defence where several senior players, including Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw, are ageing.
Leny Yoro remains a promising prospect, as does Ayden Heaven, who arrived from Arsenal and has impressed when called upon. Internally, the United hierarchy reportedly acknowledge that last summer's recruitment fell short, and the failure to sign a left-back may prove costly. Shaw's injury has forced manager Michael Carrick to rely on makeshift options after missing out on Newcastle's Lewis Hall, a priority target.
