According to a recent report from Daily Star, Barcelona have opened the bidding for Argentine striker Lautaro Martinez. However, it is believed that Inter Milan have rejected an initial bid of £65m for Martinez which included Arturo Vidal and Nelson Semedo as a makeweight. However, the Catalan giants haven’t given up on the forward, and Inter Milan are braced for another bid for Martinez.
It is believed that the striker has his release clause set at £102m. Martinez has managed 16 goals and four assists in all competitions so far this season. The forward has attracted plenty of interest from quite a few heavyweight clubs across Europe.
Why Barcelona need a new striker?
Barcelona have been linked with him for quite some time as they try to replace an ageing Luis Suarez. The Uruguayan also suffered a significant injury, and it would be interesting to see whether he would be able to get back to his best when he recovers.
Suarez is 33 now, and his contract is expiring in 2021. Hence, it is understandable why the Catalan giants are on the lookout for a new forward.
Martinez has managed to impress in the Serie A, and he even scored in the group stage of the Champions League against Barcelona this season. Martinez joined Inter in 2018 after moving from top-flight Argentine outfit Racing Club. The striker has impressed with his overall contribution and finishing skills, and one can term him as one of the hottest properties in world football at the moment.
What can Martinez offer?
The 22-year-old is known for his impressive pace and ability to carry the ball forward. Martinez shows excellent strength on the ball as he has the physical capability to outmuscle most of the defenders. The striker likes to work hard and chase every lost cause, which keeps the opposition under pressure. Martinez is also impressive with his movement and link-up play in the final third. A lot is expected out of him in the coming years as he ticks most of the boxes for a striker.
There is no doubt to us that Martinez would be an ideal long term replacement for Suarez. Being an Argentine, Barcelona having Messi in their ranks could also work as a significant advantage for them in the race for Martinez. The 22-year-old has bagged nine goals for his national team in just 17 appearances. Barcelona were probably testing the water with the latest offer of £65m plus Vidal and Semedo. They should now go all out and get a deal done for the striker.
