Arsenal Transfers: How much do Ajax want for Lisandro Martinez?

Ajax have set their asking price for Arsenal transfer target Lisandro Martinez and the Gunners fell well short of the valuation with their first bid. 

Mikel Arteta has identified Argentine Martinez as a priority target to bolster his defence this summer. The Ajax man’s profile is utterly unique and his versatility is off the charts. He can perform various functions, including centre-back, left-back and holding midfield, to a high level and such flexibility is exactly what Arteta requires.

However, securing Martinez’s services will be no easy feat for the ambitious Gunners. Not only are Manchester United also in the race for the defender’s signature, but Ajax aren’t keen on the idea of selling their 2021/22 Player of the Year this summer.

How much do Ajax want for Arsenal target Lisandro Martinez?

Arsenal are believed to be strongly interested in Martinez and have already had a bid rejected by Ajax.

The Gunners reportedly sent a proposal of €30m to the Dutch champions, but this fell way short of Ajax’s valuation.

According to De Telegraaf’s Mike Verweij, Ajax are demanding upwards of €50m for Martinez this summer. They want him to stay in Amsterdam. Other Ajax stars including Antony and Jurrien Timber are on the radars of several Premier League clubs, but the Dutch giants don’t need to sell any more of their best talent following the departures of Sebastien Haller and Ryan Gravenberch to the Bundesliga.

Nevertheless, Arsenal will push hard for Martinez in the coming days and weeks after further talks were recently held with the player’s entourage. David Ornstein (via @afcstuff), meanwhile, adds that the player is said to be keen on a switch to north London.

Thus, Martinez’s desire to join the Gunners could force Ajax’s hand and bring down their asking price for the player. Arsenal aren’t expected to match their reported €50m valuation, but they will surely send an improved offer to the Amsterdamers in a bid to get Arteta his man.