Fans favourite has future in doubt as Real Madrid keen on Man Utd raid

Lisandro Martinez hailed for his competitivity and ready to fight for the cause could be let go with Real Madrid keen on the defender.

Despite impressing in his first season at Old Trafford, the diminutive defender has come under fire this term, with critics questioning his physicality and ability to cope with the demands of the Premier League.

Following a disastrous start to the season under new boss Ruben Amorim, Manchester United are reportedly considering a squad overhaul, and Martinez, despite his undeniable talent, is not considered untouchable.

According to reports, Madrid are monitoring Martinez's situation closely, although Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold remains their top target.

However, the Spanish giants are known admirers of Martinez's combative style and could see him as a valuable addition to their squad.

Martinez, who joined United from Ajax for a fee of £57 million in 2022, initially silenced doubters with his aggressive and uncompromising style.

Jamie Redknapp was particularly scathing in his assessment, labeling Martinez "like a little boy" after the 3-2 defeat to Nottingham Forest.

"He has to be stronger, Martinez. He's like a little boy. He just gets bullied. It's a mismatch, he is trying to block him and it's a towering header," the former England midfielder said on Sky Sports.

Gabriel Agbonlahor echoed Redknapp's sentiments, claiming Martinez has been "terrible" this season and deserves more criticism.

"I feel Marcus Rashford gets a lot of stick," Agbonlahor said on talkSPORT. "Yes, he has not been at his best, but what about Martinez at the back? What about him? He's getting beat on corners for set pieces. He doesn't look comfortable."

With United struggling to find their feet under Amorim and currently languishing in 13th place in the Premier League, a squad overhaul is inevitable.

While a January sale is unlikely, Martinez could be a valuable asset in the summer transfer window, with Madrid likely to be among a number of clubs vying for his signature.

This will be a crucial period for Martinez to regain his form and silence his critics.

With a crucial Manchester derby on the horizon, the Argentine will be looking to prove his doubters wrong and remind everyone of his immense talent.

This year has proven to be a rollercoaster for United, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe enduring a rocky initiation into club management.

Since Ratcliffe's acquisition of a 27.7% stake in February, the club has faced highs and lows abound.