Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring Lisandro Martinez's form at the 2022 World Cup, with Los Blancos taking a keen interest in the Manchester United centre-back.

The 24-year-old made the move to Old Trafford from Ajax during the summer market, and he has been a vital player for the Red Devils this season, making 21 appearances in all competitions.

Martinez is currently with Argentina at the World Cup, featuring off the bench in their 2-1 defeat to Saudi Arabia in their tournament opener before playing the full 90 minutes against Mexico on Saturday.

According to journalist Hernan Cabrera, Real Madrid are closely monitoring the South American with a view to making a move at some stage in the future.

Martinez made 120 appearances for Ajax, contributing six goals and six assists, before making the move to Man United during the summer transfer window.

Arsenal were heavily linked with the defender before the start of the 2022-23 campaign, but the Red Devils ultimately won the race for his signature.

Martinez immediately became first pick in the middle of Erik ten Hag's defence, with Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire all partnering him at the back this season.

The Argentine has a contract at Old Trafford until June 2027, with the option of a further 12 months, so the club are in a strong position to resist any interest from Real Madrid.

The Spanish and European champions boosted their defence over the summer with the signing of Antonio Rudiger, who has been forced to accept a rotational role at Bernabeu this season due to the presence of Eder Militao and David Alaba in the middle of the defence.

There is currently speculation surrounding Nacho's future at the club, though, and his exit could open the door for another centre-back to make the move to Carlo Ancelotti's side.

Martinez said back in September that he was "very proud" to have become an immediate favourite of the Man United supporters.

"I am really happy. I'm a little bit surprised, but at the same time I feel very proud," he told MUTV. "To come here to the best club in the world and the people say "Argentina, Argentina", it's amazing. Thanks to the fans for the support."

Man United are believed to be willing to let Maguire leave Old Trafford next summer, with the club captain seemingly not in the plans of Ten Hag moving forward. body check tags ::