Arsenal Transfer News: Ajax is in no mood to let go of their star player, Lisandro Martinez. The Dutch club has already turned down a bid by Arsenal.
Martinez has emerged as Mikel Arteta’s top defensive target as he seeks to bolster his backline options. Last season, the Gunners defended well. However, they conceded more goals than any other side in the Premier League’s top five.
Despite the strong partnership created by Ben White and Gabriel last season, Arteta believes he needs to strengthen his defensive unit. Martinez is the primary target to provide that other option after winning Ajax’s Player of the Year award last season.
Following the acquisition of Marquinhos and Fabio Vieira, Arteta is attempting to make Martinez his third signing of the summer. However, getting an agreement with Ajax may be more difficult than initially assumed.
Arsenal Transfer News: What did the TyC Sports say?
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The Eredivisie winners have reportedly turned down a £25.7 million bid from Arsenal for the Argentine international, according to TyC Sports. The Gunners, on the other hand, remain undeterred in their pursuit of him.
They’ll have to work hard to persuade Ajax to sell him, since the Dutch club is “adamant” about keeping him. His contract also lacks a release clause, implying that Arsenal will have to make an offer that is too good to refuse.
What did Daily Mail say?
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According to the Daily Mail, Ajax is willing to hold out for a hefty fee because they are aware of other clubs’ interest. Barcelona is one of them, albeit the La Liga giants are thought to have ‘other priorities’ due to their ongoing financial woes.
Manchester United, whose new manager Erik ten Hag brought Martinez to Ajax, may be more interested. Ten Hag, like Arteta, wants to improve his defence options and has previously praised both Martinez and fellow Ajax player Jurrien Timber.
What did Ten Hag say?
“It’s obvious that they’re doing really well. They don’t do it alone, though: we have eleven defenders. Our defensive actions and good organization require a lot of effort. Everyone is aware of the situation. That, I believe, makes exploiting opportunities against us extremely tough. We have a really powerful defense,” he stated in February.
They have a good understanding of one another. It has a leadership element to it, and they both have excellent anticipatory skills. They’re also both good on the ball, moving at a moderate to rapid pace, strong in duels, and aggressive. They’re two fantastic players.”
Ten Hag has yet to complete his first summer signing. On the other hand, Arsenal having already added two players to Arteta’s roster. With a move for Martinez, the Gunners are reportedly hoping to aggravate United manager Jose Mourinho even more.
They made an enhanced £30 million bid for the Argentine international on Saturday and are awaiting Ajax’s decision. It remains to be seen whether the latest offer will be enough to persuade the Dutch side to let Martinez leave.
