Steven Bergwijn’s inevitable move to Ajax from Tottenham could help Manchester United in their pursuits of center back Lisandro Martinez.

That’s according to super-agent Jon Smith, who believes the Dutch champions ‘may’ have to bid farewell to a player of their own before they finalise the signing of Bergwijn from Spurs.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, Smith said: “The deal for Steven Bergwijn to sign for Ajax is close to being done. Both clubs have a small gap in valuation to bridge but I see no reason why it won’t be done.

“It may be that Ajax have to sell someone first but with regards to Bergwijn joining, I don’t think this one doesn’t happen, let’s put it that way.”

Arsenal and United are both competing for Martinez’s signature and according to Goal, it could be the latter that has the advantage in the race due to the 24-year-old’s connection with manager Erik ten Hag.

Having managed the Argentine for three years at Ajax, ten Hag, who now governs the Red Devils, is keen to be reunited with the commanding defender.

Should Jon Smith’s assessment prove correct, once Ajax and Spurs reach a final agreement for Bergwin, it could open the door for ten Hag’s United to complete the signing of Lisandro Martinez.