Arsenal have been handed a huge boost in their pursuit to sign Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez. 

What’s the word?

That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, who had the following to say to GIVEMESPORT on the Argentine:

“The player is pushing with Ajax because Ajax are asking for a €50 million fee and the player is pushing for them to let him go this summer as he wants this Premier League move as soon as possible.”

With Manchester United also interested, Mikel Arteta must act quickly to secure another summer signing.

Supporters will be buzzing

The Gunners appear to have been embroiled in this transfer battle for weeks now, as they trade blows with their bitter Mancunian rivals over who will get the player and the bragging rights.

However, with this newest revelation, it appears the saga draws to its conclusion. The player will join the Premier League, it is just a matter of which club.

If Arteta was to tempt the Argentina international, it would prove a smart coup and add some bite to an otherwise soft Arsenal defence. He won 69% of his total duels last season for Ajax, further outlining his aggressive nature and love of defending.

Boasting an impressive average SofaScore rating of 7.61, it is certain that the defender would add consistency as well as incredible versatility. The 24-year-old can feature across the whole back line, and even deputises in midfield on occasion.

With regards to his nastiness, despite his 5 foot 9 frame, he still loves to get stuck into a tackle. It, therefore, fits the bill that journalist Casey Evans would label him a “bulldog”.

He sits in the 99th percentile for tackles per 90, averaging a further 1.9 interceptions and 2.8 clearances. His gritty and workmanlike play style is married with a capability to progress his team, as he also sits in the 99th percentile for progressive passes per 90.

Supporters can begin to delight in the prospect of this hard-working South American joining the Emirates, however, Arteta will have to be wary that the pull of Erik ten Hag does not tempt his main target away for a reunion at Old Trafford.

AND, in other news: Arsenal favourites to sign "outrageous" £25m "phenomenon", supporters will love it.