Manchester United make decision on 26-year-old star amid interest from Real Madrid: Reports 

Manchester United have reportedly decided to offload centre-back Lisandro Martinez - a Real Madrid target - when the transfer window reopens in January.

The Argentina international has been a key part of the United defence since arriving from Ajax in the summer of 2022, scoring once and assisting once in 78 games across competitions. That includes 19 outings across competitions this season, helping keep six clean sheets but not making a goal contribution.

However, despite being contracted to Old Trafford till 2027, talkSPORT (via Team Talk) has reported that minority owners INEOS could look to sell the £75 million man next month amid interest from Los Blancos.

The report adds that despite Martinez, 26, being a fan-favourite, he isn't considered indispensable, with the focus being on youngsters like Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo to stay within PSR rules.

Los Blancos, meanwhile, have had a crisis in defence, with multiple key personnel unavailable at various times. Eder Militao has suffered a potentially season-ending ACL injury, while Carlo Ancelotti's side are seeking long-term replacements for the ageing duo of David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger.

Madrid are said to be willing to offer £45 million for Martinez. United's stance remains unclear, but it's likely that they might not agree to let the Argentine defender go at that price.

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What's next for Manchester United and Real Madrid?

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti looks on

Manchester United and Real Madrid have had contrasting seasons. The Red Devils are languishing in 13th place in the Premier League - with 19 points from 15 games - trailing leaders Liverpool by 16 points, with Arne Slot's side having a game in hand.

Meanwhile, Los Blancos are within two points off leaders Barcelona with a game in hand. They are coming off a 3-2 win at reigning UEFA Europa League winners Atalanta on matchday six of the UEFA Champions League.

The victory lifted the embattled holders from 24th to 18th in the 32-team field. Madrid return to action this weekend in La Liga with a trip to Rayo Vallecano on Saturday (December 14).

Meanwhile, Amorim's Manchester United are coming off successive league losses - a 2-0 reverse at Arsenal followed by a 3-2 home capitulation to Nottingham Forest at the weekend.

They next take on Viktoria Plzen in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday (December 12) before travelling to Manchester City in the Premier League three days later.