LISANDRO MARTINEZ has reportedly snubbed a move to Arsenal in order to join Manchester United.
The centre-back caught the eye of several of Europe's big boys last season with a string of stellar displays for Dutch champions Ajax.
His performances impressed both Arsenal and United, with the two clubs making offers for his services.
But the Argentina international is said to have "turned down" the Gunners' advances in favour of a move to the Red Devils.
That's according to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, who claim United are on the verge of signing a 24-year-old.
New United boss Erik ten Hag is said to have agreed a £46million deal to convince his former club to part company with the defender.
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Former Manchester United keeper Edwin van der Sar, who is Ajax's chief executive, is said to have played a significant role in his old club's swoop for Martinez.
The seemingly imminent arrival of Martinez at Old Trafford will provide more competition for the under-fire Harry Maguire – who will remain Red Devils skipper for the upcoming season.
United have had a quiet transfer window so far, with former Feyenoord full-back Tyrell Malacia currently their sole signing.
The Premier League giants have, however, also agreed personal terms with free-agent Christian Eriksen.
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Ten Hag is desperate to bring in as many new faces as possible before the new season gets underway next month.
He said: “In my first press conference I said already we are definitely searching for players in midfield, we also have a need in offence. We are still looking for players.
“It's going to be a long season but a season that is quite unusual due to the World Cup so you need to be prepared for this and need more players than in a normal season.
“We want to add the right players. If the opportunity is there, we will strike.”
The Dutchman, however, inists he has faith in his current crop of players.
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He said: “We are working on this and you cannot achieve this in one or two weeks, it takes longer.”
United will be back in pre-season action on Friday morning, facing Australian side Melbourne Victory.
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