According to The Sun, Leeds United are eyeing a move for Emiliano Martinez. The Arsenal goalkeeper has been identified as one of the candidates as Marcelo Bielsa looks to strengthen the goalkeeping department this summer. Although the report does not provide further details regarding the pursuit, it is believed that Leeds United are ready to offer Martinez a permanent status of a first-choice ‘keeper in the Premier League next season.
Emiliano Martinez’s Successful Form Since Project Restart
Martinez is currently one of the longest-serving members of the Arsenal team having joined the club back in 2010. However, he has never really managed to make himself a regular first-choice keeper for Arsenal, until last month when the injury to Bernd Leno made him the only other option for manager Mikel Arteta.
The Argentine didn’t disappoint either, putting in a series of consistent performances in between the sticks. In fact, Martinez has had the highest save percentage rate (81%) in the Premier League since Leno’s injury, keeping four clean sheets and notably helping Arsenal reach the final of the FA Cup.
Martinez’s emergence has served as a massive boost for Arteta. However, it is fair to assume that the 27-year-old still won’t be considered as a first-choice goalkeeper next season once Leno returns to full fitness. His current contract expires in 2022 and a move away from Emirates, therefore, seems like the best option.
Why Leeds United Need A New ‘Keeper
The goalkeeping department is one of Leeds United’s glaring weaknesses as they look to start their preparation for the Premier League next term. Their number one goalkeeper Kiko Casilla has often been criticised for his lack of consistency. In fact, the Spaniard has made numerous defensive errors throughout his career at Elland Road and does not bring much confidence to the table.
The young Illan Meslier has shown a lot of promise. But, the Frenchman’s lack of authority could be problematic in the physically astute nature of the Premier League, thus accentuating the need for a new goalkeeper this summer.
Is Martinez the ideal choice?
Martinez is, no doubt, an interesting option for Leeds United in their bid to sign a reliable goalkeeper for the Premier League next season. The Argentine has already shown what he is capable of, with his recent performances and having been a part of Arsenal for ten years; he is very experienced at the highest level of football.
Moreover, Martinez’s Argentine connection with Bielsa means he shouldn’t find too many difficulties in settling into life at Elland Road. Plus, the fact that the Whites will be able to provide him with regular game-time should also serve as an enticing prospect for the player himself. However, it remains doubtful as to whether or not the Gunners will be willing to offload such a talented star this summer.
