Arsenal continue to move quickly this summer in the transfer market as Mikel Arteta’s Gunners show intent to push further up the table next season, and have now been linked with a surprise move for Ajax and Argentina international center-back Lisandro Martínez.
The Athletic’s David Ornstein confirmed the Gunners’ interest in the 24-year-old in a potential deal that has sprouted out of nowhere in the last day, with Ornstein revealing that Martínez has become the prime defensive focus this summer.
? Arsenal defensive priority this window is Lisandro Martinez. Wanted for ability to play LCB / LB + 24yo Argentina international said to be keen. Sources indicate ~€30m bid already rejected by #Ajax but #AFC will keep pushing. That & more @TheAthleticUK https://t.co/OxgBbdOOAo
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 17, 2022
Martínez has been a key piece of the puzzle at the Johan Cruyff Arena for the last three seasons under now Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag after his arrival from Argentine outfit Defensa y Justica in the summer of 2019, making 120-appearances across all competitions while building a credible reputation for himself in the Eredivisie during his spell in the Netherlands.
Arsenal were not expected to look to add a player of Martínez’s profile this summer with French starlet William Saliba touted to remain at the Emirates next season despite a brilliant loan spell with Olympique de Marseille, but Martínez’s versatile profile has now made him a prime target for Edu and Arteta as the Gunners look to increase their depth of quality in all areas of the pitch.
Arsenal have already secured three deals this summer that address both the current situation as well as the long-term outlook of the club, with Portuguese starlet Fábio Vieira joined by Brazilian youngster Marquinhos and American international goalkeeper Matt Turner in being added to the squad at London Colney.
The Gunners are also expected to continue to push to secure deals for Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus as well as Leicester City’s Youri Tielemans, while the club are active in their interest in Leeds United winger Raphinha, too.
After missing out on Champions League football for the upcoming 2022-23 season, it is clear that the powers that be at Arsenal are intent on pushing the club up the table and to a position to challenge for major honors in both the Premier League and Europe as soon as possible.
This article was edited by
Conor Laird.
