MARTINEZ IS WANTED MAN

ARSENAL’S Emiliano Martinez has been offered an escape route from the Emirates with Schalke joining Villarreal in the race to sign the Argentine keeper.

The 27-year-old was in goal as the Gunners beat Liverpool on penalties to win the Community Shield at Wembley on Saturday.

And he impressed last term after standing in for No.1 Bernd Leno, with nine clean sheets in 23 games and helping Arsenal to win the FA Cup.

But Martinez, who has two years left on his contract, recently admitted he would quit the club if he does not play more games.

And Bundesliga side Schalke are the latest to show interest in the player, who broke into the Argentina squad last season.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has warned both his keepers that they start from square one this season and will have to compete for a starting spot.

But Villarreal, managed by former Gunners chief Unai Emery, have enquired about Martinez. However, it is understood his wage demands are a stumbling block, with the La Liga side also keen on Brentford’s David Raya.

Valencia want Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi. He has been frozen out after a series of bust-ups and the Spanish club are targeting a loan move for the France Under-21 star with a view to a £25million deal.

MIDDLESBROUGH remain keen on Burnley outcast Ben Gibson after Nottingham Forest rejected a swap deal.

Forest turned down Burnley’s offer of Gibson, 27 (left), and £4million for defender Joe Worrall and want more cash, leaving only Boro interested.

I’M YOUR NO.1 Martinez wants to go somewhere as their main keeper