Arsenal are reportedly planning a new bid to convince Ajax to sell Lisandro Martinez after having their first offer rejected by the Dutch giants.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal are ready to push again for Lisandro Martinez, with a new bid expected to arrive from the Gunners. The north Londoners had their initial proposal rejected by Ajax, who are determined to keep hold of the 24-year-old Argentine international.
Players with a long contract are always a difficult transfer target. Arsenal are experiencing something similar in their pursuit of Lisandro Martinez, who has emerged as Mikel Arteta’s top defensive target in the last few days. The 24-year-old Argentine international has a contract until 2025 with Ajax, and his situation is proving tricky for the north Londoners.
Ajax are determined to keep the defender beyond the summer and rejected Arsenal’s initial bid of €30 million. The Gunners have been keen on signing the defender, with David Ornstein of The Athletic breaking the story about their pursuit of the talented defender.
Martinez has many attributes that appeal to Arteta, including his ability on the ball and passing range. The versatile defender has played as a centre-back and holding midfielder under former boss Erik ten Hag, while he can also cover at left-back, making him an intriguing prospect for Arsenal.
Arsenal plan to push again with Ajax for Lisandro Martinez. He's top target for Arsenal, as revealed by @David_Ornstein – Ajax turned down €30m opening bid as they really hope to keep Lisandro. ⚪️? #AFC
…but been told main priority for Edu these days is Gabriel Jesus.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2022
Arsenal are keen on strengthening their defensive unit on the left-hand side, with Martinez seen as an able competition for Gabriel Magalhaes. The Gunners lack a left-footed centre-back, with Rob Holding, William Saliba, and Ben White all primarily operating with their right foot.
The 24-year-old Ajax defender is keen on the idea and is willing to join Arsenal. The Dutch giants, however, are keen to retain Martinez’s services beyond the summer transfer window. But despite having their initial bid rejected, Arsenal are not planning on cooling their pursuit.
Instead, they are reportedly preparing a new bid for the Argentine defender, with those in charge of the north London club confident over reaching an agreement. It is unclear how much Ajax may want for the centre-back with three years left on his deal.
The Gunners are currently well stacked in defence, but Arteta seemingly wants a player who will improve his team. Martinez’s qualities align with the Arsenal manager’s requirements, and the feeling is that a deal will happen in the coming time, with the price a sticking point.
