‘Do that immediately’: Club told to sell their ‘excellent’ player to Arsenal right away

Mikel Arteta’s side are keen to bring in cover for Gabriel Magalhaes and Kieran Tierney. Instead of investing in two new players, the Gunners want to sign one defender who can play in both positions, and Martinez checks that box perfectly.

The Argentine, branded as an ‘excellent player’ by Erik Ten Hag, can play in central defence, at left-back and also in defensive midfield. That type of versatility is a boon for any manager, and it is no surprise that Arteta has made him a ‘priority’.

Arsenal had a £25 million bid rejected for Martinez earlier this month, but they haven’t given up. Reports revealed that a new offer of around £35 million is on the table, and Ajax are now considering it.

Ajax told to accept Arsenal’s bid for Lisandro Martinez

Krabbendam said on ESPN Radio’s Voetbal Talk, as quoted by Voetbal Primeur: “Martínez is not someone you think is indispensable?

“They (Ajax) want €40 million (£34.5m) to €50 million (£43m). €50 million for Martínez, isn’t that almost a crime if you don’t do it?

“You have an illustrious youth academy, then you get one (player) out of it (to replace Martinez).

“€40 million to €50 million – you have to do that immediately!”

Our view

Ajax probably wouldn’t have been as hesitant as they are now to accept Arsenal’s bid for Martinez if they hadn’t already sold multiple players.

The Dutch champions have already let go of Ryan Gravenberch and Noussair Mazraoui this summer, while Sebastien Haller looks set to replace Erling Haaland at Borussia Dortmund soon.

Martinez and now Jurrien Timber have been heavily linked with a move away, but Ajax are under no obligation to sell either of them as they don’t really need the money anymore.

However, with Arsenal pushing and Martinez supposedly keen to move to the Premier League as well, there’s a good chance Ajax will let their star defender leave this summer.