Noel Whelan suggested Arsenal should make a ‘shrewd’ move for Anthony Martial in the January window with the attacker keen to leave Manchester United.
The situation with Anthony Martial has reached its tipping point with the player prepared to leave Manchester United in the January window. Injuries and loss of form have affected the Frenchman’s game in the past eighteen months, as he has fallen down on the pecking order this season.
The arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho hasn’t helped his cause, as the Frenchman has made only seven appearances in the Premier League, mostly from the bench. However, in recent days, new interim manager Ralf Rangnick confirmed Martial’s intention to leave the club, which would have alerted a few interested parties.
There were reports the Frenchman wanted a move to Sevilla, but heavy interest from the Premier League might force him to stay put in England. The injury to Callum Wilson recently could lead to Newcastle United rekindling their interest after seemingly ceding their pursuit of the Frenchman.
Arsenal are also mentioned to be in the mix in recent weeks following the club’s tussle with former captain Pierre-Emerick Aubaeyang who could leave in January. There have been suggestions that Martial can succeed at the Emirates, although the final decision will remain with Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar before anything is finalised.
Noel Whelan, however, believes Arsenal should take an intelligent step and sign the Frenchman next month. Speaking about the Frenchman to Football Insider, Whelan insisted the Premier League would be ideal for Martial to continue his career and suggested the Gunners as a possible destination.
Whelan said, “I think he’s got the talent to stay in the Premier League. I will always go back to attitude and character before talent, however, when assessing a player. That’s the first box you’ve got to tick. There are questions that need answering about Martial. Can he settle into a side? Can he bring a positive attitude to a new side?
“You’re seeing someone who just wants to play football but hasn’t been given that opportunity at all over the past few seasons. It’s been a turbulent time for Man United as well, and he’s been there throughout that time. I think he just needs that move away in order to catch fire again – let’s not forget, he’s still very young.
“Signing him would be a shrewd move for somebody in the Premier League – maybe Arsenal would benefit from having him – he reminds me a lot of Lacazette.”
Arsenal could well be a possible destination for Martial, especially given the situation surrounding Aubameyang. Although considering the Gunners are a top-four rival for the Red Devils, it won’t be surprising if a move to the Emirates is blocked.