How Lisandro Martinez might have just given Everton a problem

Lisandro Martinez made headlines this week with his outburst about Manchester United’s shortcomings in the summer – and he has potentially created a problem for Everton with his comments.

After United’s latest defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, Martinez hit out at the lack of support for manager Michael Carrick, saying (via Sky Sports): “I expect more from our technical director (meaning director of football, Jason Wilcox). We expect more from the top, from upstairs, to bring in more players to compete.”

Martinez later put out a statement on social media to try and calm things down a little, but it remains to be seen if he will be disciplined for his comments. His words have certainly cast doubt on his future at the club.

It’s not inconceivable that United could sell him in the next window, or next summer – and given United’s interest in Jarrad Branthwaite, Everton may have to brace themselves.

United have been linked with Branthwaite for quite a long time now. The central defender has been on their radar in the last couple of years, with links resurfacing just after the last transfer window closed.

No bid has yet come in from United for Branthwaite. But it’s getting to the point where one might arrive soon. The Red Devils need to rebuild, but Martinez probably wasn’t someone they were planning to move on.

That may now have changed though with his comments.

United could well ramp up their efforts to sign Branthwaite as a result of Martinez clearly being unhappy at the moment. The Argentine is obviously a left-footed centre-back, so Branthwaite is absolutely ideal in terms of keeping balance.

Lisandro Martínez did NOT hold back after United’s loss to Atletico https://t.co/OGo25Pzd30

Everton obviously need to try and resist any pursuit though. Aside from the game against Hull last weekend, Branthwaite has been absolutely superb for the Toffees and reminded everyone this season what a top centre-half he is.

It was reported a few weeks ago that Everton would be looking for somewhere in the region of £80 million for Branthwaite.

A new report from The Daily Mail has suggested United would actually rather not lose Martinez, but say that a move for Branthwaite is possible after what he said. They wrote: “His injury record and ability to attract a decent offer could make that option more acceptable following his (Martinez’s) comments.”

Plenty of Everton fans would be forgiven for hoping the club would sell for more than that, given his quality and potential, and also factoring in the size of the squad and Branthwaite’s importance.

Iliman Ndiaye was sold somewhat cheaply and now he is already looking like a player worth more than £65 million for Manchester City, so Everton can’t make the mistake. Not that they should be entertaining selling him at all.