Jackson Martinez and Geoffrey Kondogbia linked with move to Italian side
Arsenal have been dealt a summer transfer blow in the pursuit of Porto forward, Jackson Martinez – and Monaco midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia.
Martinez, aged 28, netted 18 times for Porto last term, and is one of the most in-demand forwards in Europe right now – but AC Milan have appeared to win the battle for his services, after matching his buy-out clause.
Porto’s president confirmed yesterday evening that he Colombian striker had indeed chosen to join the Italian side ahead of Arsenal or Liverpool this Summer.
The agent of Colombian international Martinez, claims that a £25million deal to take his client to Italy is all but done, with Milan set to confirm the deal in the coming days.
Luiz Henrique Pompeo stated yesterday: “We are very close to concluding a deal with Milan and there’s a very good chance it will be finalised.
“We hope to give the announcement tomorrow or the day after tomorrow.”
“I am optimistic on Jackson’s move to Milan, but we’re not quite there yet,”
There is a good possibility we’ll conclude the transfer, but we are not yet at the all-clear moment.”
He added: “What I can say with certainty is that Martinez is a player worthy of a top club and Milan have history. The Rossoneri are not just a big club, but a huge one.”
Arsenal’s transfer blow:
Such news could spell a bitter blow for Arsenal, who were previously keen to add to their attacking options this summer.
Gunners manager Arsene Wenger was hopeful to land his prized target, with Milan also set to beat them to another target, aside from Martinez, who is currently on international duty at Copa America with Colombia.
Reports in the Italian media suggest that Milan are to launch a bid worth £22million for AS Monaco‘s midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia.
By Ben Reardon
