Transfer Talk: Arsenal are Inter signing striker Martinez

Arsenal have renewed their interest in signing Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez.

A new forward is expected to be top of Mikel Arteta’s wish list this summer with the futures of Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah uncertain.

And with the Gunners currently the favourites to finish in the top four and return to the Champions League next season, they hope they will be able to attract some big names.

The Times say Argentine star Martinez, 24, is high up their shortlist as they look to bolster their striking options for next term.

The 37-cap international has matched last season’s Serie A goals tally of 17 again this campaign, while providing a further three assists.

The report indicates Martinez is keen to join a club competing in the Champions League, while cash-strapped Inter are willing to sell him for around £60-70million.

There is also interest from Atletico Madrid and Manchester United, who have offered a part-exchange deal with Anthony Martial to try and secure the striker’s services.

North London rivals Tottenham attempted to sign Martinez last summer and are still said to be keen, though they are quietly confident Harry Kane will remain at the club.

Alongside Martinez, Arteta wants to bring another striker to the Emirates this summer, with Gabriel Jesus and Dominic Calvert-Lewin two prime targets.

Jesus’ future is looking uncertain at Manchester City due to Erling Haaland’s reported impending arrival, while Calvert-Lewin appears primed to leave Everton regardless of whether they survive relegation.

In other news

Manchester United appear to have a free run at signing Declan Rice, with ESPN reporting that Chelsea and Manchester City will focus on strengthening other areas.

Reports in Spain say Chelsea pair Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso both want to join Barcelona this summer.

AC Milan and Juventus lead the race to sign Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard, according to ESPN.

The Athletic say Tottenham have targeted RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol and Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni in their search for a centre-back.