Arsenal have made another approach to sign sought-after Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez amid Manchester United’s growing interest in the Argentine star.
Embroiled in a keenly-contested transfer tug-of-war with fellow the Premier League rivals, the Gunners have made their move to outfox the competition.
As per Telegraaf’s Mike Verweij, Mikel Arteta’s men have submitted a €40m bid, including add-ons, to pip Man United to Martinez’s signature.
However, Ajax are holding out for a €50m transfer fee, meaning Arsenal will have to improve their bid further if they are to lure the 24-year-old away from Amsterdam.
The Emirates Stadium outfit forked out €58m to acquire the services of Ben White last summer.
Although many were skeptical when the English centre-back arrived from Brighton & Hove Albion, he had an inspiring maiden season in north London.
White formed a formidable defensive partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes, providing a backbone for Arsenal’s failed bid to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
Regardless of the Gunners’ collapse down the tail-end of 2021/22, both centre-backs had an impressive season overall.
But Arteta wants to add to his defensive options in the summer to bolster Arsenal’s hopes of landing their first top-four Premier League finish since 2015/16.
Martinez appears to be featuring his shortlist close to the top, but convincing Ajax to renounce their first-team stalwart could be tricky.
The Argentine defender played a key role as Erik ten Hag guided the Lancers to the Eredivisie title last season.
After earning the status of indispensable starter at the Johan Cruyff Arena, the former Defensa y Justicia star looks ready to take his career to the next level.
There is no better place than the Premier League to help him gain worldwide recognition.
But after allocating significant funds to sign Gabriel Jesus and Fabio Vieira, Arsenal may not be able to adhere to Ajax’s demands.
It could pave the way for ten Hag’s Man United, who are desperate to reinforce their porous backline this summer.
