Edwin van der Sar explains how Man Utd signed Lisandro Martinez over Arsenal

Edwin van der Sar has opened up on Arsenal’s summer time pursuit of Lisandro Martinez, and Manchester United’s subsequent signing of the Argentine.

Martinez has rapidly established himself as certainly one of United’s most vital gamers within the early days of the Erik ten Hag period, overcoming a troublesome begin to the season to show himself as an asset for his new membership.

However issues may’ve been lots completely different had Arsenal acquired their means earlier in the summertime switch window, having proven an curiosity in signing the defender from Ajax earlier than United acquired the deal achieved.

Van der Sar, who serves as chief government at Ajax, informed The Athletic of the Gunners’ failed pursuit: “Arsenal got here earlier for Lisandro, nevertheless it was an quantity the place we stated, ‘Thanks very a lot for the provide, however we’d fairly preserve the participant than begin negotiating’.

“With United, it was slightly bit completely different,” he added: “Over time we’ve had a number of conversations: Daley Blind, Donny van de Beek.

“My job is ensuring I make the very best selections for Ajax.”

Martinez ended up penning a five-year take care of the Crimson Devils in a deal price as much as £57 million, with Van der Sar sanctioning the sale to his former employers with a better provide offered.

United would return to do enterprise with Ajax later within the window, parting with a fair bigger £86m price to prize Brazilian winger Antony away from the membership.

Harry Symeou hosts Scott Saunders, Brian Goldfarb, Sean Walsh & Ali Rampling from the 90min editorial staff to look again on Brazil ’14 as a part of the ‘Our World Cups’ collection. We make a journey down reminiscence lane – be part of us!