The Daily Express have claimed that Arsenal are confident Ajax centre-back Lisandro Martinez, who is rumoured to be on Tottenham’s radar, would be open to a move to the Emirates stadium this summer.
90min were the first to report two weeks ago that Spurs were battling the likes of Arsenal, Newcastle United and Chelsea for Martinez’s signature.
The Athletic subsequently revealed that Arsenal made an opening €30m (£25.7m) offer for the 24-year-old, 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.
Journalist Graeme Bailey told Talking Transfers Podcast (20/06/22) last week that Ajax’s interest in Steven Bergwijn could give Spurs an advantage over their North London rivals in the race for the Argentine.
The Express have now revealed that Arsenal remain in dialogue with the Eredivisie giants over a deal for Martinez.
It is explained that while Ajax are not actively looking to sell the centre-back, an offer in the region of £40m could alter the club’s stance.
The report adds that the Gunners have made fresh contact with Martinez’s representatives after their opening offer was rejected.
Spurs Web Opinion
If Spurs really wanted Martinez, they would have likely discussed the centre-back during their negotiations with Ajax for Steven Bergwijn. The fact that the Tottenham hierarchy did not do so, suggests that the Argentine is not on Conte’s wishlist this summer.
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