Arsenal have emerged as surprise suitors for Lautaro Martinez, and they have enquired about the availability of the Inter Milan striker, according to The Athletic.
The 23-year-old joined Inter Milan from Racing Club in 2018. Since then, he has racked up 132 appearances for them. He enjoyed a good run of games last season, scoring 17 goals and registering 10 assists. His impressive performances have been instrumental in the Nerazzurri’s first league triumph in more than a decade.
According to a report in The Athletic, Arsenal have enquired about the availability of Martinez during talks with Inter over a potential transfer of Hector Bellerin. The Italian club are open to selling their star, should they receive a sizable offer.
The report further states that the striker is interested in a move to the Emirates. He would receive a major hike in his salary which is estimated to be double the £2.1million-a-year he is currently earning in Italy. His contract with Inter expires in 2023 and the talks for a new contract have stalled due to the club’s difficult financial situation.
The Italian giants are desperate to generate funds through player sales this summer as they aim to become more sustainable. Their reluctance to sell Romelu Lukaku has made Martinez a potential candidate to leave the club.
However, a move will depend on Alexandre Lacazette’s future. He was included in a swap deal but Inter are only interested in a cash deal. Tottenham Hotspur are also monitoring the situation and consider him a potential replacement for Kane, should he leave the club this summer.
Arsenal Fever View:
With Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in their 30s, signing a young and talented striker would be a priority for the Gunners. Martinez looks to fit the bill and, without a doubt, will instantly transform the team’s attacking outlook.
The 23-year-old’s instincts in front of the goal are considered to be one of the best in the world. He is not just a prolific goalscorer, the Argentine has a relentless work rate and is willing to track back for his team. His intelligent off-the-ball movement enables him to exploit tight spaces in between the defenders.
The Emirates club’s defense was ranked the third-best last season just behind Manchester City and Chelsea for the least number of goals conceded. It is evident that their lack of composure in the final third has cost them European qualification.
Martinez is still young and with his huge potential, he can only get better as time passes. The Inter man could provide the firepower Arsenal have been missing for a long time and finally, help them secure the coveted Champions League spot next season.
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