The Argentina international is contracted until June 2027, but neither he nor United is reportedly keen to activate the option for an additional year. That could leave the 28-year-old free to negotiate with overseas clubs from January, although United retain the contractual option and any decision over his departure remains unresolved.
His position has become more complicated following his public comments after Manchester United’s Champions League defeat by Atletico Madrid earlier this month. Martínez criticised the club’s recruitment and hierarchy, adding to tensions around a team already enduring a difficult period. His relationship with the club has reportedly deteriorated, and a summer departure is now being considered.
A January exit has not been ruled out, but would depend on the offers received. United could prefer to wait until the end of the season rather than accept a fee midway through the campaign, particularly given the defender’s importance to the side.
Despite the turmoil around the club, Martínez’s performances have remained a positive. He leads United for clearances at 3.3 per match and recoveries at 2.7, while winning 63 per cent of his duels. Transfermarkt places his market value at €45 million, although a free transfer next summer would make him an attractive proposition for potential suitors.
Atlético have a longstanding interest in the centre-back and could view his availability as an opportunity to strengthen their defence without paying a transfer fee. The club’s hopes of signing him have also received a public endorsement from Argentina team-mate Cristian Romero.
Asked which player he would bring to Atlético, Romero answered: “Lisandro Martínez. A player I would bring to my club? Lisandro Martínez."
His comments underline the defender’s appeal within the Argentina set-up and have added to speculation about a move to Madrid.
Barcelona are also keeping track of the situation, although AS reports that the Catalan club are taking a more cautious approach. Martínez is viewed as an established defender with extensive experience at the highest level and a World Cup winner with Argentina.
Interest has also been reported in Italy, where Inter, Roma and Como are monitoring possible defensive reinforcements. Any move will depend on United’s position over the contract option and the defender’s own preference, but the coming months could determine whether his time in Manchester is nearing its end.