Arsenal to take on United in race to sign Martinez
Arsenal are hoping to move quickly in the race for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez, who is also wanted by Manchester United.
Arsenal have identified the 24-year-old as their top defensive target and their latest offer is understood to be about £35million, rising to almost £40million with add-ons.
But they are likely to face strong competition from United for Martinez’s signature, with manager Erik ten Hag thought to be keen on adding his former player to his defensive options at Old Trafford.
A bidding war between the clubs would suit Ajax, who are in no rush to sell the Argentina international during a window in which they have already agreed the departures of Sebastien Haller and Ryan Gravenberch for about £50million.
Martinez was Ajax’s player of the year under Ten Hag last season and the United manager is understood to be pushing for the club to compete with Arsenal for the defender.
There is a feeling that Arsenal are hoping to conclude a deal for Martinez swiftly while United focus their attention on finalising the transfers of Frenkie de Jong, the Barcelona midfielder, and Feyenoord full-back Tyrell Malacia.
If Arsenal can win the race for Martinez, it would allow left-back Nuno Tavares to leave on loan. Tavares filled in as Kieran Tierney’s deputy last season, with mixed results, and has caught the attention of Marseille.
Arsenal have had a busy start to the summer window, having already concluded a £30million move for Porto midfielder Fabio Vieira and struck a £45million deal with Manchester City for striker Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian’s arrival is set to be announced imminently.
Arsenal have also signed winger Marquinhos, who has joined from Sao Paulo for about £3million, and have now confirmed the £7million addition of United States goalkeeper Matt Turner.
Manager Mikel Arteta is almost certain to be frustrated in his pursuit of Leeds United winger Raphinha, however, after Chelsea stole ahead of the north London club in the race for the Brazilian. Barcelona, Raphinha’s preferred destination, are also still interested.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will choose to reignite their long-standing interest in Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans, with the hunt for Martinez seen as a more pressing priority.