Martínez option at Atlético

Martínez's Manchester United contract expires summer 2027; neither club nor player will exercise the one-year extension option, with Atlético and Barcelona monitoring the situation.

Lisandro Martínez's time at Manchester United appears to be ending. The Argentine defender's contract runs until June 2027, but according to AS, neither the club nor the player intends to exercise the optional one-year extension. Tensions at Old Trafford have escalated following Martínez's post-match comments after United's clash with Atlético Madrid, and a significant exodus is expected next summer.

At 28, Martínez is performing at his peak—SofaScore data shows he leads United's defence in clearances (3.3 per game), recoveries (2.7 per game), and duel success rate (63%). His market value remains stable at €45 million despite the club's turmoil. Both Atlético Madrid and Barcelona are positioning themselves to sign him on a free transfer, with Atlético viewing him as a long-standing target that fits their sporting and financial parameters. Barcelona is also monitoring his situation as a proven elite-level defender and World Cup winner. Italian clubs including Inter, Roma and Como are also tracking him. Martínez will be able to negotiate officially with other clubs from January onwards.