Atalanta United’s Josef Martinez is thriving in Major League Soccer.
Josef Martinez #7 of Atlanta United FC
Back in February, Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez told Lider en Deportes back in his native Venezuela that he had his eyes on a move to a big European club – naming Tottenham for a very specific reason.
Martinez, 24, left Italian side Torino for a move to Major League Soccer back in February of this year, joining new expansion team Atlanta United as one of their marquee signings.
Atlanta United have a friendly relationship with Tottenham, hence their deal to take Anton Walkes on loan from the Premier League club – and Martinez seemingly saw their relationship as a route back into Europe.
Gabriel Mercado #4 of Argentina chases Josef Martinez #17 of Venezuela
Speaking to Lider en Deportes, Martinez noted that Spurs are buying young players and developing them, giving him hope that if he impressed for Atlanta, he could earn a move to North London.
Since then, Martinez has taken MLS by storm. His record in league games for Atlanta United now stands at a remarkable 18 goals in 18 games, emerging as one of the most dangerous forwards in the United States.
Martinez’s goal record in MLS has no doubt turned heads in Europe, and the forward may just get his move to a big club off the back of his exploits in Georgia – but will his Harry Kane-esque record trigger interest from Spurs?
A general view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
Tottenham brought in a new striker over the summer in Fernando Llorente, but he is a veteran target man, a far cry from the diminutive and pacey Martinez, whilst his versatility to play out wide may also be appealing.
Spurs may still not be interested in signing Martinez despite their links to Atlanta United, but if he continues to score goals so frequently, Mauricio Pochettino’s side may just have to sit up and take notice.
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