Arsenal to push for Lisandro Martinez

Arsenal are planning to push ahead for the transfer of Lisandro Martinez from Ajax, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The 24-year-old Argentinian is a versatile defender, primarily a centre-back but known to do well on either flank, as well as a defensive midfielder if needed there. Mikel Arteta mostly preferred the pair of Gabriel Magalhaes and Ben White in the heart of defence in 2021/22, but with William Saliba set to return after a successful loan spell at Olympique Marseille, and now this interest too, it seems the Arsenal boss is keen to strengthen the depth of his squad concerning this section. Martinez’s ability to deputize elsewhere is certainly an added bonus.

On the other hand, Ajax are keen to keep hold of the defender whose contract still has three years left to run, and they’ve already rejected an offer from the Gunners consisting of €30 million.

Arsenal have placed the name of Martinez close to the top of their wish list, but the absolute priority for technical director Edu is still Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus.