Tim Vickery expressed his surprise that Arsenal are ‘heading the queue’, ahead of Manchester United, for Lisandro Martinez this summer.
The South American football expert shared that the Arsenal transfer target is a ‘very good footballer’, but questioned if he lacks the physicality for Premier League football.
With the summer transfer window wide open, both Arsenal and Manchester United, will be looking for that return to the Champions League next season, after their Europa League finishes last time out.
Ajax defender Martinez is seemingly on the duo’s transfer list, with recent suggestions that the Argentina international wants to move to the Emirates.
Either way, this was the lowdown Vickery provided of Martinez, as he claimed that if Manchester United boss, Eric ten Hag, ‘really wanted’ Martinez, then he would be at the front the queue for his signature, as he told Sky Sports News.
“Lisandro Martinez at Ajax, he’s a left-footed utility man,” said Vickery. “I saw him a bit playing a midfield role. Distributing from central midfield when he was in Argentina.
“Interesting that it’s Arsenal, and not Manchester United, heading the queue. I think there is a little doubt here. Very good footballer. Lovely left foot and constructive.
“Pushing Otamendi in the Argentina team. But the little question mark, is he physical enough as a defender in the Premier League? Very good at playing out from the back, but can he defend against the quality of strikers he will be up against.
“You would have thought that if ten Hag really wants him, then it would be now. He would be at the front of the queue.
“So, perhaps that Man United are a little off this one, it leads you to the conclusion that they aren’t 100% sure.”
WHO WILL JOIN VIEIRA IN NORTH LONDON?
Arsenal have their first senior summer transfer signing through the door – Fabio Vieira.
The 22-year-old joins from Porto and Arsenal fans will be hoping that he is the first of many signings this summer.
It seems as though the Gunners are heavily looking at the South American market in their quest to improve the squad.
From Argentina’s Martinez, the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Richarlison and Raphinha of Brazil, have all been linked as well.
Either way, this is where Mikel Arteta adds proven stars to his young squad because he can’t afford to take a sidewards or backward step next season.
If he does, then he probably won’t be in a job by the time the 2022/23 Premier League season concludes.
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