Lisandro Martinez’s tenure at Manchester United appears likely to come to an end during the club’s planned defensive overhaul next summer. The Argentine defender, who joined the club from Ajax in 2022 for £57 million, has reportedly fallen out of favor following comments he made regarding the club’s transfer strategy.

Martinez attracted criticism after Manchester United's recent Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, when he publicly expressed disappointment with the club’s transfer policy and specifically mentioned director of football Jason Wilcox. The club responded by fining Martinez, who subsequently issued an apology for the timing of his remarks.

Since his arrival, the 28-year-old has been a regular fixture in central defense. However, with his current contract set to expire at the end of June, negotiations for a renewal appear unlikely to succeed. While Manchester United would prefer not to release Martinez on a free transfer, sources indicate the club may opt to activate a 12-month contract extension and seek to sell him during the summer transfer window.

The futures of other key defensive players are also uncertain. Left-back Luke Shaw and defender Harry Maguire are both out of contract in June, though Maguire’s deal includes an option for a one-year extension. The club’s approach to their contracts remains unclear as management considers how best to restructure the squad’s defensive lineup.

Manchester United is expected to pursue significant changes in defense as part of a broader effort to improve results and address weaknesses exposed during the current season. Martinez’s potential departure would mark a notable shift given his role at the heart of the defense since his arrival.