In a recent report, The Express stated that Arsenal are hoping to recruit Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez this summer. It is believed that the Gunners are showing interest in acquiring the services of the Argentine centre-half and have now tabled a second bid to bring him to North London during this summer transfer period.
Martinez’s Impressive Form In Dutch Football
Martinez managed to prove his worth as a valuable presence at the centre of Ajax’s defence in the previous campaign. The South American talent was involved in 36 matches for the Dutch outfit last season, netting one goal and grabbing four assists in multiple competitions.
The seven-time Argentina international was a consistent performer for Ajax based on his average of 2.0 tackles, 1.9 interceptions and 2.8 clearances per 90 minutes in the Dutch Eredivisie. The 24-year-old has even been accurate when distributing the ball from the back, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 88.9% in the Dutch top-flight (stats via whoscored).
Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Snap Martinez Up This Summer?
Martinez is a decent tackler of the ball and can make a few important interceptions for his side on the defensive end of the pitch. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when the opposition are on the offensive and can even put his body on the line to block a goal-bound shot inside his half.
The Argentine sensation is proficient at playing his way out from the back but can be somewhat weak in the air. He is mainly a central defender but can also play as a left-back or as a defensive midfielder if required.
Arsenal can definitely use someone of Martinez’s skill set and versatility to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign.
The Argentine defensive ace will no doubt enhance the quality of Mikel Arteta‘s first XI and might even help the Gunners challenge for some major trophies once again in the coming seasons. Thus, the North London club should focus on snapping Martinez up during this summer transfer window.
