Arsenal have launched a second bid of around 40m euros for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez, though it is expected to be rejected with the Dutch side thought to be holding out for a fee closer to 50m euros should the Gunners want to land their man this summer.
Mikel Arteta is thought to have made Martinez his main defensive target, with the Argentine, nicknamed ‘The Butcher’, able to cover at left centre-back, left-back and in defensive midfield, adding some much needed cover for the injury-prone Kieran Tierney and Thomas Partey.
And, as per Dutch outlet Telegraaf, Arsenal have returned with a second, 40m euro bid for Martinez after having an initial 30m euro deal rejected last week.
Erik ten Hag and Lisandro Martinez after winning the championship against Heerenveen in the Johan Cruijff ArenA on May 11, 2022 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. ANP OLAF KRAAK
Manchester United are also thought to be interested in the defender, alongside his teammate Jurrien Timber, and could yet scupper any deal that the Gunners have planned.
However, 40m euros is unlikely to be enough, with Dutch media claiming that Ajax are holding out for a fee closer to 50m euros.
The Amsterdam side are under no pressure to sell, having already recouped over 50m euros this summer through the sales of Sebastien Haller and Ryan Gravenberch to Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich respectively.
What next for Arsenal?
Arsenal have already announced three new additions this summer, and are expected to announce a deal for Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City in the coming days.
Meanwhile, they remain keen on Leeds United winger Raphinha despite reports to the contrary, and they have also been linked with a move for Leicester City midfielder Youri Tielemans this summer.
In total, then, they could be adding seven players to their squad for significant outlay in their chase for a return to Champions League football.
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