Journalist Dean Jones has claimed that rumoured Tottenham target Lautaro Martinez could join Chelsea as a part of a deal to take Romelu Lukaku back to Inter Milan.
Multiple reports emerged on Thursday suggesting that Spurs could be about to test Inter’s resolve to hold on to Martinez.
Alfredo Pedulla claimed that the North London club could launch an offer of around €90m (£77m) for the 24-year-old while TuttoMercatoWeb stated that the Spurs hierarchy are expected to contact Inter next week to learn about how much the Argentine would cost.
Jones has now backed up the reports of Tottenham’s interest in Martinez, with the journalist adding that Antonio Conte’s men have a big advantage over Arsenal.
He claimed that the Inter star would not consider a move to the Emirates this summer as he wants to play Champions League football next season.
However, Jones revealed that Chelsea have discussed the option of including Martinez in the deal to take Lukaku back to the San Siro. Reports have indicated that the two clubs are discussing a potential loan deal (Sky Sports).
He told GiveMeSport: “Lautaro Martinez would be open to a Premier League transfer, amid fresh links to Chelsea.
MORE SPURS STORIES
“The €120m-rated (£102m) Argentina forward is understood to be open-minded about how this summer market may change the landscape at Inter Milan, who are interested in bringing back Romelu Lukaku.
“The chances of that materialising are high as Inter players are indicating to people around them that they have been told to expect a return.
“And some reports have indicated that Lautaro, 24, could become part of a swap deal for it to happen if there is no breakthrough on a straight loan fee.
“There has been no genuine movement on the swap front and such a deal would be complex. Yet even away from the Chelsea link, the player has remained open to a move to England, so we can not rule out the possibility he lands in the Premier League.
“Publicly Martinez continues to state his desire to stick with Inter yet this week sources close to the player indicated to GiveMeSport that a switch to England is still possible.
“Tottenham have long been mooted as a landing spot and still hold an interest. And they would have the jump on rivals Arsenal – thanks to Champions League football.
“It has emerged that the player would no longer consider a move to Emirates Stadium, given their lack of top-level European football.”
Spurs Web Opinion
One would think that Chelsea would have an upper hand over Spurs in the race for Martinez, as the Argentine would be the main-man upfront for the Blues, which he would not be at Tottenham. The one thing that might work to Spurs’ advantage is the 24-year-old’s relationship with Antonio Conte.
Keep up to date with all the latest Tottenham news and opinion by following SpursWeb’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.
