Relief for Arsenal as Barcelona prioritise Man Utd target over key man
In-demand Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez has decided he wants to join Barcelona next, rather than Manchester United, it is claimed.
Martinez is growing into one of the biggest attacking prospects on the planet having made an impression at Inter since moving there in 2018, and has been linked with Manchester United.
The Red Devils opted for a cheaper option in January by bringing in Odion Ighalo on loan – a signing that has been approved by a former United hitman – but the idea of them making a more high-profile signing in the future remains in the background.
However, ESPN bring them bad news in their pursuit of Martinez – who is also linked with rivals Manchester City – by revealing that he would like to join Barcelona next.
The Argentina international has been informed that he could be the heir to Luis Suarez at Camp Nou, with Barcelona failing to bring a striker in during January despite an injury to the former Liverpool star.
Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was on Barca’s shortlist before they declined the chance to add a new attacker – but it appears they won’t be going back in for the Gabon international.
Instead, they are set to focus on Martinez, who has a release clause worth €111m – although Inter are keen to increase that to put off potential suitors.
Martinez recently said that links with United were a good sign for his development, but would not commit to saying he wanted the move.
“Today, I’m an Inter player and I’m happy here,” the 22-year-old told TyC Sports.
“The fact that they speak well of me means that I’m doing something right and the intention is to continue on this path.
“I’m calm, happy and at ease with Inter.”
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