Real Madrid are set to rival Arsenal in the race to sign Argentine star Lautaro Martinez.
According to The Times reports, Inter Milan value his prized asset at £70m, when the Gunners inquired about signing him.
Earlier this summer, Arteta went for Gabriel Jesus over Martinez.
Since joining Inter Milan, Lautaro became the main man in front of goal and teamed up with the likes of Icardi, Lukaku and Edin Dzeko.
Link to Real Madrid
Real Madrid needs a striker, as Benzema only has a few years left to show off his spirited form. According to Calcio Mercato Web, Martínez is one of Real Madrid’s preferred candidates to replace the Frenchman in the coming seasons.
Benzema will turn 35 in December this year and Real Madrid are desperate to find a long-term solution. Madrid also have a lack of options for the substitute striker role. Real have sold Jovic to Fiorentina on a free transfer and Borja Mayoral for a very nominal fee. They were also unsuccessful in landing Kylian Mbappe.
A few years ago, Barcelona really wanted the Argentine to link him with Messi. But after the revelation of Barcelona’s dire financial situation, the possibility of that deal is dead.
So far at Inter Milan
Inter Milan’s valuation is very high, rumored to be around 100 million euros. The Nerazzurri is also making an effort to renew his contract.
After signing for the Italian giant for 22.7 million euros, Lautaro Martínez signed a five-year contract with the club. He helped Inter win Serie A after 11 years. Since his debut, he has scored 78 goals in 194 appearances. He also provided 26 assists.
Martinez has already contributed to six goals for Inter Milan this season. He dominated Barcelona’s defense in the last Champions League game at the Camp Nou. The match also ended in a 3-3 draw and Lautaro scored a goal.
Various reports also suggest Tottenham are keen to sign him. Conte is desperate to reunite with his former player. But Real Madrid always has an advantage in the transfer market.
There was a bit of controversy last night as Barcelona legend Lionel Messi liked Lautaro’s Instagram post after beating Barca. He wrote: “Heart, personality, humility.”
Barcelona fans have criticized Messi on social media and called him a “traitor”. Assaulting Martinez from Inter Milan is no easy task for any club. If the Italian club can make Lukaku a permanent deal, they may listen to offers for the Argentine striker.
