Manchester United are expected to hold talks with Lisandro Martínez’s representatives in the coming weeks as the club weighs whether to extend the defender’s contract or consider a sale.
Martínez’s current agreement runs until June 2027, but United have an option to prolong it by a further year. The decision has taken on greater significance following the Argentina international’s recent performances, disciplinary problems and criticism of the club’s hierarchy.
Manchester United talks with Lisandro Martínez expected
Fabrizio Romano said direct discussions between the player’s camp and United are due to take place this month. He said the club would assess Martínez’s behaviour, form, future and contractual position before deciding on its next move.
“The answer I am getting is that this month, over the next days and weeks, there will be direct contacts between Lisandro Martínez’s camp and Manchester United to assess the situation and consider all the possibilities,” Romano said.
Those possibilities include activating the extension, allowing the existing deal to run down, retaining Martínez or sanctioning a transfer. United are understood to be considering the option partly to avoid losing the defender’s value without receiving a fee.
The 28-year-old’s position has become more uncertain after he publicly criticised United’s directors and board following the match against Atletico Madrid. His recent form has also come under scrutiny.
Martínez was sent off after receiving two bookings in United’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea. The result extended Michael Carrick’s winless run to nine matches and added to the pressure surrounding the defender’s future.
United may therefore trigger the additional year before deciding whether to sell. Doing so would give the club greater control over Martínez’s situation rather than allowing his contract to approach its conclusion with his future unresolved.
Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have been linked with interest in the defender, although United’s immediate priority is to establish whether he can restore confidence through improved performances and discipline.
Martínez was previously regarded as one of United’s defensive leaders. The forthcoming discussions will determine whether the club still sees him as part of its long-term plans or whether extending his contract would instead provide protection ahead of a possible transfer.
