Man Utd risk losing £48m ‘cult figure’ as Barcelona prepare summer onslaught

Barcelona are reportedly aiming to sign Manchester United centre-back Lisandro Martinez, who has been sensational in recent weeks.The 28-year-old has been plying his trade at Old Trafford since 2022, when he became Erik ten Hag’s first signing at Old Trafford.The Argentine swiftly endeared himself to the fans, who appreciated his never-say-die attitude, as well as his ability to pick up a teammate with a long ball, so he’s now considered a ‘cult figure’ at the club.Lisandro Martinez plays the ball while in action vs Fulham. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)After 10 months on the sidelines, the defender has recently made his return to the starting lineup. Under the guidance of Michael Carrick, Martinez has been absolutely brilliant at the back, forming a solid partnership with Harry Maguire.Barcelona consider Lisandro Martinez ideal for their defensive plansWhile Man Utd fans are hoping to keep the former Ajax star at the club for years to come, The Daily Briefing reveals that Barcelona are plotting a summer onslaught.The Blaugrana will be keen to bolster their backline, which has been their main Achilles Heel this season, and the United star could suit their possession-based style thanks to his exquisite passing ability. Martinez displayed his on-the-ball skills in the victory over Spurs on Saturday by making 103 successful passes, more than any other MUFC player this season. Lisandro Martinez completed 103 passes against Spurs – the most of any @ManUtd player in a Premier League match this season 🎯 🔍 @Microsoft pic.twitter.com/n6mqi4L5sg — Premier League (@premierleague) February 7, 2026The source adds that some sources at Man Utd had insisted that the 2022 World Cup winner is not for sale, while others suggest that the club could consider offers in the region of €55 million (circa £48 million), as it would constitute a financially lucrative operation.Why Man Utd must not sell MartinezWhile Carrick’s appointment is certainly the most important factor in Man Utd’s mid-season upturn, Lisandro’s return to the lineup cannot be considered merely coincidental.MUFC have become much more solid at the back since the Argentine regained his place, so no Man Utd supporter would like to dwell on the possibility of losing his services next summer. Man Utd EPL record in 25/26 Matches Win Draw Loss Points Lisandro Martinez in Starting XI 8 5 3 0 18 Lisandro Martinez not in Starting XI 17 7 5 5 26 It should be noted that United have other reliable options at the back in Matthijs de Ligt and the young duo of Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven, while Maguire’s contract renewal remains possible.However, Martinez has been the club’s standout performer at the back, and if INEOS decide to part ways with him next season, they could certainly live to regret this decision.Lisandro’s contract with the Red Devils runs until June 2027, and it includes an option for another year.