Martinez decision leaves Arsenal facing double blow in striker search

Arsenal’s attempt to strengthen their attack has suffered a second setback, with Inter Milan rejecting an approach for Lautaro Martinez after Julian Alvarez turned down the chance to move to the Premier League club.

Julian Alvarez refused a transfer to Arsenal this summer as he remained determined to fulfil his ambition of playing for Barcelona. However, Atletico Madrid rejected Barcelona’s offer for the Argentina international, leaving the Catalan club unable to complete the move.

Barcelona then considered a number of alternatives, including Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez. The Argentina striker also declined the opportunity to join the Spanish side, with Barcelona eventually signing Brazil forward Gabriel Jesus instead.

Arsenal subsequently turned their attention to Martinez after recognising that Alvarez would not be leaving Atletico Madrid. According to The Sun, the Gunners submitted an approach for Martinez during the final stages of the summer transfer window.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta explored the possibility of bringing Martinez to Emirates Stadium once it became clear that Alvarez would remain at Atletico Madrid. However, Arsenal’s late attempt to sign the Inter Milan striker was firmly rejected by the Italian club.

The developments mean Arsenal have followed a path similar to Barcelona in their pursuit of a new forward, only to encounter rejection over both players. Alvarez chose to remain focused on his desire to play for Barcelona, while Martinez decided to stay with Inter Milan.

Martinez confirmed that Barcelona had made an effort to sign him. Speaking to Sky Italia, he said: “The rumours were true, but in the end, I wanted to stay here with my team-mates, with these people, with these fans who have always been wonderful to me.”

He added: “It is certainly a great pleasure, a great honour and immense satisfaction because you always work to improve, move forward and develop. When these offers or calls from these big clubs arrive, they are always welcome. It is extremely important.”

Despite the interest from Barcelona and Arsenal, Martinez opted to continue his career at Inter Milan alongside his team-mates and remain with the supporters who, he said, had always treated him exceptionally well.

For Arsenal, the failed move for Martinez came after Alvarez had already rejected their proposal, leaving Arteta’s side without either of the forwards they had considered as options during the summer market.