Arsenal made an approach to sign Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez in the final days of the summer transfer window, according to reports. The move came after the club's pursuit of Julian Alvarez stalled, with Atletico Madrid refusing to sell and the player favouring a move to Barcelona.
Arsenal's late move for Martinez
According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal's assistant manager Gabriel Heinze contacted Martinez last week to discuss a potential move to the Premier League. The 29-year-old Argentina international is valued at €85 million (£73m) and still has three years remaining on his contract with the Serie A champions.
However, Inter categorically ruled out the possibility of Martinez leaving the club this summer. The Italian side remain in a strong negotiating position given the striker's contract length and his importance to the team.
Alternative targets explored
Arsenal had also explored other options to strengthen Mikel Arteta's attack, including Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Despite these efforts, the Gunners ultimately ended the window without a late deal for a new forward.
Martinez scored 22 goals in 41 appearances for Inter last season, underlining his value to the club. His performances have made him a key figure in Inter's recent successes.
Martinez's commitment to Inter
In May, Martinez made his stance clear, stating his desire to remain at Inter for the rest of his career. "No doubt I would like to retire at this club," he said. "It's hard for me to imagine myself anywhere else these days. You never know in football but if they don't kick me out, I'm staying here."
Arsenal's interest in Martinez highlights their ongoing search for attacking reinforcements, but Inter's firm stance means the striker is likely to stay in Milan for the foreseeable future.
