Arsenal's transfer window got off to a flying start with the arrival of Fabio Vieira but they are facing a tough battle to sign other targets.

What's the word?

The Gunners' defensive priority this summer is the acquisition of Ajax's Lisandro Martinez.

Mikel Arteta sees the Argentine as someone who can play in several positions so it's not just his ability but also his versatility that has caught the eye.

Arsenal have already seen a bid rejected but Manchester United have now joined the race with a bid of £37m.

A new update from the Daily Star suggests that Edu will return to the negotiating table this week with a fresh bid to test the resolve of Ajax.

A big coup

If Arsenal's technical director can get a deal across the line in the coming weeks then it would be a seismic coup for the Gunners as they will fending off competition from the defender's former manager Erik ten Hag.

United's new head coach has a big appeal for Martinez but arguably it's Arsenal's project that is the more exciting at the moment.

Either way, he'd be a brilliant signing for the north Londoners who are in desperate need of adding more depth to their squad.

Arteta would secure that in several positions by luring the 24-year-old to the Emirates Stadium as he's capable of playing at left centre-back, left-back and in holding midfield.

Arsenal didn't have enough to cover for the injury-prone Kieran Tierney last term so would cover that position well while they also struggled without Thomas Partey's presence as the holding player in the middle of the park when he was injured.

He has the qualities to thrive in all of those positions for Arsenal, as he possesses some staggeringly good statistics.

According to FB Ref, the Argentina international ranks in the top 1% for tackles per 90 minutes compared to those in Europe's top five leagues with 3.13. He is also superb in possession, ranking in the best 5% for pass completion, the top 1% for progressive passes and the top 4% for progressive carries out from defence.

With that in mind, it's clear to see why scout Jacek Kulig dubbed him "elegant". To put it simply, whoever signs him this summer will be landing an elite player.