'It should be said': Sky Sports reporter says Arsenal are still pushing to land Arteta's 'priority' signing

By Lee Connor

Arsenal are still keen on beating Manchester United to the signing of Lisandro Martinez, although it is United who hold the more favourable cards right now.

Martinez has emerged as a target for both United and the Gunners and he is expected to move to England after telling Ajax he wishes to play in the Premier League. The Dutch club are thought to be open to Martinez leaving, as long as their asking price is met.

Where Martinez does end up remains unknown. But speaking on Sky Sports today, Dharmesh Sheth spoke of how United’s relationship with Ajax stands them in ‘good stead’, before admitting that Arsenal are still in the mix, albeit below the current asking price.

“It’s not surprise Ten Hag is going for players that he knows and trusts, simply because he has a philosophy and way of playing. Arsenal, though, it should be said, are still interested in Martinez but they haven’t met the asking price either,” Sheth said on Sky today.

Despite signing Gabriel Jesus today, Martinez has been deemed as a ‘priority‘ signing for Mikel Arteta this summer. It remains to be seen, though, if the Gunners can pull another one out of the bag.

TBR’s View: All Roads Point To Manchester United For Martinez

This is certainly an interesting battle for a player who is clearly coveted across Europe. However, it does seem that as time ticks by, Old Trafford looks the more likely destination.

The Ten Hag link, the Ajax link, plus the fact he’s likely to be a regular starter at United, means Martinez could well be tempted to link up with his old boss.

United fans will be hoping they finally land a player. Arsenal fans, meanwhile, will be relaxed knowing they’ve done so well already this summer.