According to a report by TEAMtalk on October 15, 2026, Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez is reportedly considering leaving Old Trafford at the end of the season, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid monitoring developments surrounding his future.

The Argentina international has attracted attention following his public criticism of Manchester United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, after the club’s 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday evening. His comments have reportedly intensified uncertainty about his long-term commitment to the Premier League side.

Martinez expressed concerns about Manchester United’s recruitment strategy, arguing that the club needed to strengthen several areas of the squad during the summer transfer window. He also defended manager Michael Carrick, suggesting that the difficulties facing the team could not be attributed entirely to the head coach or the players.

According to reports cited by TEAMtalk, the defender is assessing his options as his current contract approaches its scheduled expiration at the end of the season. Manchester United reportedly possess the option to extend his agreement by another year, but The Athletic has indicated that Martinez does not want the extension activated. The club is also said to have reservations about exercising that option.

His uncertain contractual situation has reportedly attracted interest from Spain, where both Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are considering whether to pursue a potential move.

Journalist Dean Jones reported on October 14 that Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Martinez. A transfer to the Spanish club could appeal to the defender, offering him an opportunity to continue his career in La Liga if he decides to leave Manchester United next summer.

Barcelona are also reportedly keeping a close watch on developments. Spanish journalist Juan Jesus claimed on October 15 that the Catalan club are monitoring Martinez’s contract situation and could explore a move if he does not agree to a new deal.

Barcelona are understood to appreciate the Argentine’s qualities, while their sporting director is reportedly familiar with the defender. If Martinez becomes available without a transfer fee, he could represent an attractive opportunity for the Spanish giants.

Meanwhile, Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly unhappy with Martinez’s public remarks about Wilcox. TEAMtalk reports that the club has yet to determine whether disciplinary action will follow, although the possibility of a fine has been raised.

Despite the growing speculation, transfer insider Graeme Bailey has indicated that Manchester United are not planning to sell Martinez simply because of his criticism. The club is reportedly evaluating the situation carefully rather than making an immediate decision.

Martinez’s future could therefore depend on negotiations over his contract, interest from Spanish clubs and Manchester United’s eventual decision regarding his role in the squad.