Journalist reveals ‘trump card’ Spurs could have over Arsenal in race for 24-year-old

Journalist Graeme Bailey has claimed that Steven Bergwijn could be the trump card that helps Tottenham beat Arsenal to the signing of Ajax centre-back Lisandro Martinez. 

90min were the first to report last week that Spurs were battling the likes of Arsenal, Newcastle United and Chelsea for Martinez’s signature.

The 24-year-old centre-back, who has also featured in midfield and at full-back for Ajax, was also said to be on the radars of both Inter Milan and Barcelona.

The Athletic revealed over the weekend that Arsenal made an opening €30m (£25.7m) offer for Martinez which was turned down by Ajax while TYC Sport have backed Mikel Arteta’s men to return with an improved offer for the Argentina international.

Meanwhile, Dutch publication De Telegraaf reported on Monday that the Eredivisie giants are set to make an improved offer for Spurs winger Steven Bergwijn. 

Bailey believes the Netherlands international could be used as a makeweight by Antonio Conte’s men to land Martinez. 

The journalist told Talking Transfers Podcast (20/06/22) about the Ajax defender: “We did a piece on Friday. Arsenal have gone in for him, they like him a lot. There’s a lot of interest in this guy, but the big thing with him is that he wants to leave Ajax. 

“We understand he’s told Ajax he wants to leave, he plays on the left side, he’s an outstanding player, he can cover a lot of positions, he can play centre-half, he can play left-back and he can play in the midfield.

“Again, this may be a north London battle, because we’re hearing that Tottenham like this guy a lot and they do have a bit of a trump card possibly because Ajax really want Steven Bergwijn, so could that potentially offer him in exchange?”

Spurs Web Opinion

Lisandro Martinez’s versatility will make him a decent squad player but I believe Conte will want a left centre-back who will improve the starting eleven this summer. 

I am not sure that the Argentine will be an upgrade on Ben Davies, which is why I would be surprised if Spurs pushed ahead with a move for the Ajax star.

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