Lisandro Martinez has reportedly told Ajax of his desire to play in the Premier League, amid interest from Arsenal and Manchester United.
What’s the word?
That’s according to Sky Sports, who reported that the Argentina international has outlined his intentions to make the switch to the Premier League, handing his suitors a green light to further their interest and sign the defender.
Martinez is yet to decide on whether Arsenal or United will be his destination, as both have shown a keen interest.
The two had both recently submitted fresh bids, with United the latest to offer a reported £37m for his services.
He could be their Paolo Maldini
Arsenal have long been embroiled in a transfer battle for this particular target, and he would provide incredible cover and a nastiness often missing in Arsenal teams.
Football Talent Scout likened the defensive animal to the great Paolo Maldini on Twitter, describing him as having a “dominant” yet “elegant” play style.
Standing at just 5 foot 9, this terrier boasts some of the most impressive offensive stats for a defender. It could therefore explain his ability to also deputise in central midfield.
He sits in the 99th percentile for progressive passes, the 96th percentile for progressive carries, whilst also sitting in the 99th percentile for tackles per 90. He clearly manages to still do the dirty work despite his incredible passing numbers.
It, therefore, supports his incredible average SofaScore rating of 7.61 in the league, which ranks him only second behind Dusan Tadic amongst his Ajax teammates.
He also chipped in with four goal contributions last season, which makes for a decent return considering he is naturally a centre-back and given his diminutive stature for someone of that position.
The 24-year-old could create a formidable partnership with any of Arsenal’s centre-backs, as he appears to be able to occupy either role of the dominant or the more progressive defender.
It is no surprise that he was the recipient of Ajax’s player of the year last season.
Edu could pull off a masterclass if they can tempt Martinez to the Emirates, and with the player keen on a move to the Premier League, it remains to be seen whether Mikel Arteta can convince the defender to come and be their Maldini 2.0.
AND, in other news: Arsenal plotting bid to sign "truly unstoppable" £40m star, he's better than Raphinha.