Arsenal have reportedly enquired about the availability of Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez this summer, and have made signing the Argentina international their transfer priority.
The Gunners are set to confirm the signing of Porto playmaker Fabio Vieira in the coming days. Arsenal have completed three summer signings so far with young prospect Marquinhos and American goalkeeper Matt Turner both joining the club for minimal fees.
Whilst the focus this summer is mainly on attacking and midfield reinforcements with Gabriel Jesus and Youri Tielemans targeted as priority signings, Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to strengthen his defensive options ahead of next season. William Saliba will return to the Emirates Stadium after a successful loan spell at Marseille, but there are still question marks over whether he will stay permanently and it is reported that the Gunners are open to signing a defender this summer.
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According to The Athletic, Arsenal have enquired for Erik ten Hag's former Ajax favourite Martinez, and he is now their top priority deal with Vieira's signing set to be announced. Both Manchester United and Barcelona are rumoured to be interested in the Argentina international, but the Gunners have seemingly made the first move regarding a potential move for the defender.
Martinez's versatility puts him in a similar bracket to Takehiro Tomiyasu, with the 24-year-old able to play at left back and defensive midfield, whilst predominantly plying his trade at centre-back. Reports suggest that the Eredivisie champions would entertain offers for Martinez this summer despite him signing a new long-term contract last September.
Atalanta have been rumoured to be interested in signing Nuno Tavares this summer. With Kieran Tierney's struggles with injury last term as well, Martinez could be a useful option amongst Arteta's defensive options.
