Arsenal are narrowing down their striker options as they prepare for a big move in the summer. Many names heavily linked with a move have rumoured around the Emirates. But the Gunners could finally have their hands on quality striker who can lead their offence. Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez is the one wanted by Arsenal, who has been impressing consistently with the Serie A champions. However, his hefty price tag being the hurdle blocked a move.
But it seems luck may be finally in Arsenal’s favour, as they can realistically hope of landing Martinez. The Argentine striker had a release clause of £92 million last year, which was too much for Arsenal. As a result, the Gunners didn’t even enter any negotiations. However, this could change this summer as Lautaro’s asking price is now down to around £58 million to £66 million.
Arsenal and their ‘dream’ striker-signing could be a reality
Lautaro Martinez emerged as a powerful goalscorer since joining Inter in 2018 from Racing Club. Even Inter wouldn’t have known that they are getting a gem for mere £23 million. Though he failed to reach double figures in goals scored in his debut season, Inter still entrusted him. And since the next season, Lautaro prevailed with the Italian club. He scored 21 goals and further assisted 8 in his second full season with Inter. As of now, Lautaro has scored 65 goals and assisted 22 in his 165 games for Inter Milan.
As a result of his exploits, Inter smashed a release clause of £92 million on him. Tottenham Hotspur, North London rivals of Arsenal were even close to the signing of the Inter striker. However, a dispute over the fee collapsed the move. But Arsenal could now pounce on the opportunity to sign Lautaro Martinez for a reduced fee in the range of £58-£66 million. All thanks to the new contract penned by the Argentine in October last year. Though the new deal would keep him at Inter till 2026, it vanished the release clause. And therefore, Arsenal would only have to pay Lautaro’s market value which stands at £63 million for acquiring his services. A fee arguably within the range of the Gunners.
Lautaro hallmarked by Leo Messi
There’s a little to doubt over the forward’s qualities, which have been lauded by the the great Lionel Messi himself. Lautaro, a teammate of Messi at Argentina has scored 19 goals in 37 games for his national team, helping them win the Copa America in 2021. While speaking to talkSPORT about the striker targeted by Arsenal last year, Messi said, “He’s (Lautaro Martinez) spectacular. He has impressive qualities. You could tell he was going to be a great player and he is showing that”.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner continued, “He’s very strong, really good one on one, scores a lot of goals. And in the area he fights with anyone, holds it up, he can turn, scrap to win it all on his own. He has a lot of quality.
He’s very complete”. Though Arsenal now have a shot at trying to sign the Inter striker, they should be wary of other competitors as well. Tottenham are still lurking, and Liverpool have developed new interest. Arsenal will have to fend-off the potential suitors if they are to land Lautaro Martinez as their striker to lead the attack.
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