Manchester United and Arsenal are “?reportedly set to go head-to-head for the signature of Sporting Lisbon’s £35m-rated Gelson Martins, who has been likened to Portuguese legends Luis Figo and Cristiano Ronaldo, according to a report in the “?Express.
The 21-year-old exploded onto the scene this season after his promotion from the Sporting academy and has produced nine assists as well as three goals in all competitions so far this season, including this thunderous strike…
With tonnes of pace and impressive dribbling ability, Martins has no problem taking on (and often beating) players, leading him to become the man with the highest number of successful take-ons in the 2016/17 Champions League at one point.
Although contracted until 2021, Sporting are keen to get the winger to commit his future to the club by signing a long-term deal. However, negotiations are currently at a standstill as the club are yet to come to an agreement with Martins’ representatives over a deal.
Similar to Cristiano Ronaldo, Martins was born outside of mainland Portugal – although Martins was born in Cape Verde and Ronaldo, on the other hand, was born in Madeira. Both, however, represent the same national team and may one day share Manchester United as a mutual club if Martins makes the switch from the Lisbon outfit.
Memphis Depay looks likely to depart the club in the coming weeks with Everton the frontrunners for the £25m Dutchman’s signature. This would suggest that United may soon be in the market for a replacement winger and Martins could fit the bill for compatriot, Jose Mourinho.
Arsenal may instead feel that they have the upper hand with Joel Campbell already on-loan at Os Leões. With three goals as well as three assists to his name thus far, Arsene Wenger may be able to argue that Sporting already have their replacement if they are to let Martins go, whilst making Campbell’s move permanent.
The two teams are in a more immediate battle at the moment for a spot in the top four as five points separate second-placed Liverpool and fifth-placed Manchester United with the rivals set to meet next weekend.
Arsenal face an away trip to Swansea City but no game in the Premier League is easy, as the Gunners learned last time out in their 3-3 draw with AFC Bournemouth.
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