Man United should make Lisandro Martinez transfer call as Argentine media drop unanimous verdict

Man United have to tie Lisandro Martinez down to a new long-term deal after he proved his quality on the international stage once again.

Martinez is approaching the final months of his Man United contract, which expires in June 2027.

United have the option to trigger an automatic one-year extension to his deal, but their current plans are unclear.

The 28-year-old has been a regular in Michael Carrick's side this season after another impressive World Cup campaign with Argentina.

His latest performance for his country and subsequent praise from national media should give the Red Devils the incentive to extend his contract long-term.

Martinez is likely to attract interest from clubs across Europe in January before potentially leaving Old Trafford for free next summer.

Argentine media laud 'excellent' Lisandro Martinez vs Bolivia

The 28-year-old has made 115 appearances for United over the last four seasons, but missed over 100 games for club and country in that same timeframe.

Many fans and pundits have criticised him for being unable to replicate his fine international performances in club football.

Martinez is clearly a top defender, though, as shown by his 90 per cent pass accuracy, 86 touches, eight passes into the final third, two of three ground duels won and three of three aerial duels won against Bolivia on Wednesday.

Argentine outlet La Nacion heaped praise on the United defender in their review of the win, writing: "A match in which he was able to showcase his excellent ball control, as Bolivia ceded possession and were barely able to mount any attacks. He was responsible for playing the opening pass from the centre circle. It was from his feet that Lautaro’s opening goal originated. A defender who contributes to the build-up play on days when the opposition are not pressing hard."

TYC Sports offered him more appreciation for a relatively routine defensive performance, saying: "Like his defensive partner, he had a match where he wasn’t overly busy. Lisandro was solid in both his own half and the opposition’s, keen to link up with debutant Vega, whilst also initiating moves down his flank."

Which other players are out of contract at United?

Martinez should clearly be in line for new terms at Old Trafford as he continues to impress internationally and play regularly under Carrick.

He is among seven United stars with first-team experience to be out of contract next summer, with sources telling Football Insider that Luke Shaw is set to be offered a new deal before his expires in 2027.

Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire are the same, although they, like Martinez, are at the discretion of the club, who retain a one-year extension option.

Harry Amass, Tyler Fletcher and Tom Heaton are the fringe and youth stars that could leave Old Trafford for free or very little money next summer.