Manchester United defender Lisandro Martínez is reportedly moving closer to an exit from Old Trafford after reaching an understanding with Atlético Madrid over personal terms. A report by TEAMtalk on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, said the Argentine is interested in joining the Spanish club, although the two teams have not yet opened formal negotiations over a transfer.

The development comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding Martínez’s future at United. The 28-year-old has faced scrutiny following a series of difficult displays, with mistakes and disciplinary issues adding to concerns about his contribution during an increasingly disappointing campaign for the Premier League side.

United’s problems have intensified under manager Michael Carrick, whose position is under pressure after the team went nine matches without recording a victory. Upcoming meetings with Roma in the Champions League and Aston Villa in the Premier League are therefore particularly important. Winning both could help ease criticism of Carrick and improve his prospects of remaining in charge.

Martínez, meanwhile, has struggled to convince in recent outings. He was blamed by critics for failing to prevent Dominic Solanke from scoring Tottenham’s equaliser, then endured another difficult afternoon against Chelsea. During United’s 2-0 defeat, he had problems containing Morgan Rogers and was dismissed after receiving two yellow cards within a short period.

His second booking followed a challenge on Wesley Fofana inside the penalty area, which also gave Chelsea an opportunity from the spot. The incident further intensified criticism of the defender at a time when United could ill afford another setback.

His relationship with the club has also come under the spotlight following public remarks in which he criticised United and its leadership. Those comments have added another dimension to the speculation, with questions emerging over whether he wants to continue his career in Manchester.

According to the report, Atlético have agreed in principle on personal terms with Martínez. Such an understanding would indicate that the player is open to the move, but it does not mean a transfer has been finalised. United and the Spanish club still need to discuss a potential fee and agree on the conditions of any deal.

Martínez’s contract is due to expire in 2027, a factor that could influence United’s approach. TEAMtalk has previously reported that the defender wants to leave and is opposed to the club exercising an additional one-year extension option. If that account is accurate, the January window may be United’s last realistic opportunity to receive a transfer fee rather than risk losing him later.

Former Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg has also questioned Martínez’s performance against Chelsea, while expressing sympathy for Carrick as the manager deals with the team’s wider difficulties. Former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel was similarly critical, describing the defender’s errors and public comments as unacceptable. Ex-Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy also labelled him a liability.

The reported agreement places Martínez’s situation firmly in focus, but his departure remains uncertain until negotiations begin and the clubs reach an agreement. No agreement between the clubs has been reported at this stage.