According to FC Inter News, as cited by Express, Manchester United are interested in the services of Lautaro Martinez. The Inter Milan forward has been identified as one of the club’s two top attacking targets in January as they look to replace Romelu Lukaku, who, in turn, moved to San Siro in the summer. However, the forward reportedly has a release clause worth £110 million.
Why are United interested in Martinez?
Martinez was regarded as one of the top talents in Argentina even before his move to Inter Milan last summer. He scored 26 goals in just 58 matches for Racing Club in all competitions.
But, he did endure a slow start to his career in Italy, often being overlooked in the starting lineup during the first half of the campaign. That being said, Mauro Icardi’s timely incident paved the way for the Argentine to become a crucial member of the Inter attack following the turn of the year.
Martinez ended up scoring six goals in his debut Serie A campaign. And this season, he is already close to surpassing that tally, having already found the back of the net four times in just nine league games. His contributions in front of goal have played a critical role behind Inter’s incredible start to the campaign under new manager Antonio Conte.
What can he bring to the table?
Martinez is an opportunistic striker, who can not only help his team create chances but is also quite reliable in front of goal. He is primarily known for his aggression and willingness to close down the ball-carrying defenders, making him an effective cog in the first line of press. His partnership with Romelu Lukaku notably helped Inter topple Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League this month.
Should Man United make a move for Martinez?
Martinez is undoubtedly an excellent option for Manchester United. His tenacity and ability to formulate chances in the final third makes him an ideal replacement for Lukaku, whose lack of athleticism was becoming an issue for Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer. But at the same time, the Red Devils certainly shouldn’t pay his reported release clause.
They could use that money elsewhere, especially given the fact that there are so many other options around. Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho or Bayer Leverkusen’s Kai Havertz are a couple of players that could fit the bill at United. Martinez, therefore, is not a viable target for the club, due to his price-tag, though they should at least look to lower his price-tag by negotiating with Inter.
