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Arsenal Transfers: Gunners lodge improved second bid for Lisandro Martinez
Arsenal have sent an improved second bid to Ajax for Argentine defender Lisandro Martinez, but the offer still falls short of the Dutch club’s valuation.
The Gunners had long been linked with versatile Bologna full-back Aaron Hickey as a means of bolstering their defence, but Martinez has recently emerged as Mikel Arteta’s priority target. The Argentine international was named as Ajax’s 2021/22 Player of the Season after helping Erik ten Hag’s side to yet another Eredivisie crown.
His versatility has undoubtedly intrigued Arteta, with Martinez capable of providing cover at three different positions.
He’s a talent the Gunners are desperate to get a hold of.
Arsenal lodge improved second bid for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez
Arsenal have submitted a new bid for Lisandro Martinez, as reported by @MikeVerweij. €40m with add-ons included, but Ajax always asked for €50m fee. Man Utd have also been in touch with his agent ⚪️🔴 #AFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 27, 2022
Again, Ajax have no intention to sell both Lisandro and Jurrien Timber. pic.twitter.com/yjiTEt5g1j
According to De Telegraaf’s Mike Verweij, Arsenal have submitted an improved second bid for Martinez after their opening proposal was rebuffed by Ajax.
The Gunners’ second offer is believed to be €40m plus add-ons but the Dutch champions are holding out for an upfront €50m fee. They don’t want to sell the 24-year-old this summer, but Arsenal’s latest offer should at least bring them to the negotiating table.
Manchester United, meanwhile, have also been linked with a move for Martinez – as well as his teammate Jurrien Timber – but they’re yet to make a bid for the defender.
For the moment, Arsenal are ahead of the Red Devils in the race for Martinez and there’s no doubting that he’d be a huge coup for Arteta. The 24-year-old is a technical phenomenon and his profile is utterly unique for a defender.
The club’s determined pursuit of the Ajax star is further evidence of their intentions this summer. They’re backing the manager all the way, and Edu Gaspar is trying his utmost to satisfy the boss. The Gunners have already brought in Fabio Vieira, Marquinhos, and Matt Turner, while Gabriel Jesus is on his way to the Emirates, too.
Raphinha, Martinez and a left-sided central midfielder would complete a perfect window for Arsenal.