Arsenal have already had a major setback this summer with newly-promoted Brentford side humbling the Gunners in their opening game of the season. Club captain Aubameyang along with Alexandre Lacazette missed the game as they were not fully fit and evidently, Arteta’s team missed them badly. The Spanish manager will be biting his nails to reinforce his forwards before the season is well and truly underway.
However, according to a report in Italian media (Sport Mediaset), Arsenal have made a huge financial proposal to Inter striker Lautaro Martinez to try and stop him from entering contract talks with the Nerazzurri. Apparently, Arsenal have readied a shockingly expensive contract that would be worth around €17 million a year. The contract will include much more than just a salary, such as bonuses, signing-on fees and agents fees.
Lautaro’s Magnificent Season at Inter
The Argentine was exceptional for Inter last season pairing up with Romelu Lukaku. He himself accumulated 17 goals and 10 assists in 38 league games. (transfermarkt) His dynamism and direct approach to the game was admirable.
Martinez was also involved for Argentina in their Copa America triumph this year. He partnered up with Lionel Messi and led the line brilliantly for his national side.
Whether Martinez Would Be Keen To Move?
Arsenal are one of the clubs that have been most linked with the Argentine striker ever since it became clear that there was a contract standoff between him and Inter. Now that Romelu Lukaku has left for Chelsea, it is significantly less likely that Lautaro Martinez will leave the club this summer. However, Inter is in a financial pickle at the moment and clearing that debt is their first priority.
Inter Milan have offloaded Achraf Hakimi and Romelu Lukako for big-money deals. Hence, Arteta might think that a worthy offer will be enough to strike a deal with the club.
Arsenal face tough competition from North London rivals Spurs in the event the Martinez does decide to leave Inter. However, if Tottenham manage to keep Harry Kane, Mikel Arteta should be doing everything in his power to bring the Argentine to his club.
