Arsenal push for stunning Lautaro Martinez transfer

In the transfer window it is always recommended to bide one’s time when it comes to rumours in order to see how they develop. Arsenal holding an interest in Lautaro Martinez felt almost too good to be true. It isn’t.

Trying to decipher what it is Arsenal are planning to do this summer will leave you with a searing headache. On the one hand, it’s very clear that the general age of the squad is being reduced with fresh blood to complement the exciting core, but equally, where is being strengthened changes the dynamic.

Seeing Arsenal resort to offering Granit Xhaka a new contract with Roma continuing to be a few million short of the asking price, a move that saves them having to go out and sign a more expensive midfielder, yet also splurge £50m on a centre-back raises eyebrows.

It’s evident there is money in the bank, but cost cutting measures being taken in some areas – even if there could be some tactics in play – do suggest a limit to the budget.

Arsenal push for stunning Lautaro Martinez transfer with Inter striker a serious target for Mikel Arteta in summer window with deal possible

With a right-back, goalkeeper, midfielder (if Xhaka goes) and attacking midfielder all on the agenda, rumours emerging of contact with Inter over Lautaro Martinez seem misplaced.

Opportunities to sign players of his calibre are not to be scoffed at. But they may have to be if the more vital areas of the squad to replenish remain untouched.

Previously reported and now followed up by The Athletic, is that Arsenal are serious about signing Martinez – and there is a deal to be struck with the Serie A champions. It appears the Gunners can do both.

Long-term admirers of the Argentinian, Inter are looking to move to a more sustainable financial model. While their desire is to keep hold of their best players, they need to sell. Achraf Hakimi has already been sold for a transfer that could total £60m, and even with a cash injection back in May, they need to run a tighter ship.

Needing to finish the transfer window with a net profit of €80m, Arsenal are seeing an opportunity arise they weren’t expecting. A plan was in place but given the state of the market, this gap is an ajar door they don’t want to see closed.

This move has even been mooted as a ‘simple’ one. Negotiating wouldn’t be a major concern as should Inter receive an acceptable offer – one classed as being at a reasonable price point – then the deal can be struck.

Can Arsenal pull this off, and what needs to happen first?

Continued…