Arsenal are set to meet Ajax for discussions over a possible move for defender Lisandro Martinez this summer, according to reports. The Argentina international has been heavily linked with a switch to the Premier League.
It comes as the Gunners continue their search for added quality in their squad heading into next season. Mikel Arteta’s men struggled particularly with squad depth last campaign, having to settle for Europa League next time out.
The Spaniard has already looked to address this, with three players already coming through the door. Director Edu suggested that was hardly the end of things in the market though: “We will now continue to work hard and are looking forward to finishing this transfer window as strongly possible.”
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Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus is expected to be signing number four in the coming days as Arteta looks to solve his lack of natural centre-forward options. However, there are still concerns surrounding other areas that need quality rotation in a season with many more fixtures to come.
One particular problem is on the left of the back four, with Kieran Tierney’s battles against injury causing issues in the previous campaign. Add to that the lack of left-sided centre-back options beyond Gabriel and it’s an area that needs addressing.
That’s where Ajax’s Martinez comes in, with the versatile defender able to play both positions as well as a deeper midfield role if necessary. The Gunners are said to have two bids turned down so far, though rivals Manchester United also appear to be in the race.
In an attempt to reach a solution, the Athletic are reporting that Arsenal are set for a meeting with the Eredivisie champions next week to work out a deal. The club are said to want €50million (£43million) guaranteed to let him leave.
Arteta will be hoping that his side can land another transfer target and get deals done and settled in with plenty of time before the new season.
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