Manchester United may already have a tailor-made replacement for Lisandro Martinez at the club. The Argentine defender hit the deck in agony following a coming together with Ismalia Sarr during United's 2-0 home defeat against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Though the club is yet to confirm any concrete news on his injury, reports from Argentina - now backed up by MEN Sport - suggest the defender has torn his ACL.

Ruben Amorim's side progressed to the next round of the Europa League after a successful trip to Romania last week and have a crammed fixture list to come.

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The Red Devils will also be bidding to retain their FA Cup crown this season - as they host Leicester City in the fourth round at Old Trafford on Friday.

But they do have an alternative plan that could quickly come to fruition over the next few weeks. New signing Ayden Heaven - who joined the club over the weekend - is a left-footed defender and looks set to be called into action immediately at Old Trafford.

Having signed ready for the first team, Heaven could be cast straight into the action after being unveiled to supporters before Sunday's clash with the Eagles.

He made his senior debut for Arsenal against Preston North End in the EFL Cup earlier this season and now may be asked to step up and be counter very quickly at his new club.

“We are delighted that Ayden has joined Manchester United," said technical director Jason Wilcox following his arrival earlier this weekend.

"He is already an extremely talented defender who is ready to join our first-team squad in order to maximise his development.

“This club has a phenomenal track record of supporting young players and we believe that Ayden is in the perfect place to reach his excellent potential.”