Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta had major concerns over signing Manchester United ace Lisandro Martinez because of the Argentine’s lack of height.
The Argentine joined United from Ajax in an initial £47m deal earlier this summer but he’s struggled in his opening two matches for the Red Devils.
Martinez has played left centre-back alongside Harry Maguire, keeping the likes of Victor Lindelof and Raphael Varane out of the side.
The 24-year-old has played numerous positions during his career, including left-back and defensive midfield.
He played in both positions under Erik ten Hag at Ajax but he was mainly utilised as a centre-back and the Dutchman has spoken of Martinez exclusively as a central defender.
Arsenal were initially the frontrunners for Martinez but they failed to agree a deal for the Argentina international, with Ajax turning down two bids from the Gunners.
The Gunners were unwilling to match United’s eventual bid and they soon switched their attention on other targets when it became apparent that Martinez preferred a move to Old Trafford.
But Arteta had planned on playing Martinez at left-back as he valued the Argentine’s ability on the ball, his tenacity in the tackle and his mentality.
Though the Spaniard was clearly a fan of the Argentine, the Athletic say the Gunners had concerns over Martinez’s lack of height and did not feel he was capable of playing at centre-back in the Premier League.
Brentford boss Thomas Frank admitted following his side’s 4-0 win on Saturday that the Bees targeted Martinez in the air.
But Ten Hag has no plans to alter his plans and Martinez is set to continue as a centre-back in his system.
United have made their worst start to a season in over 100 years and they face Liverpool at Old Trafford next Monday.
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