Arsenal's Last-Minute Pursuit of Lautaro Martinez After Missing Out on Julian Alvarez

Arsenal Targets Lautaro Martinez as Final Striker Option

In a frantic late attempt to secure a new striker, Arsenal reached out to Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez after failing to sign Julian Alvarez. The Gunners’ front line needed reinforcement following the departure of Gabriel Jesus and the missed chance to bring in Alvarez.

Gabriel Heinze Leads Arsenal’s Martinez Approach

The Daily Mail reports that during the closing days of the summer transfer window, Arsenal explored a major move for Martinez. Manager Mikel Arteta wanted someone with sharp goal-scoring instincts to boost the team’s attack, especially after adding midfielders Bruno Guimaraes and Piero Hincapie but lacking striking options.

Arsenal’s assistant manager, Gabriel Heinze, personally contacted his Argentine compatriot last week to discuss a potential transfer to the Premier League. The 29-year-old striker remains one of Europe's top scorers, having netted 22 goals in 41 games last season, making him a prime candidate to lead Arteta’s forward line.

Options Narrow After Alvarez and Osimhen Slip Away

Arsenal’s hunt became more urgent once it was clear their preferred targets were unavailable. Initially focused on Atletico Madrid’s Alvarez, the club found out he favored a move to Barcelona. They also considered Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen, but complications blocked any late-window deal.

Inter still hold strong control over Martinez’s future; the Argentine has three years left on his contract and the club regards him as indispensable, rejecting offers despite interest from England.

Martinez Committed to Staying at Inter

"No doubt I would like to retire at this club," Martinez said in May. "It’s hard for me to imagine myself anywhere else these days. You never know in football but if they don’t kick me out, I’m staying here."

He expressed pride in the attention from big clubs abroad but emphasized his life is now settled in Milan. Martinez mentioned his family, a restaurant he owns, and his kids attending school there, underscoring why he feels happy to remain.

"When these offers or calls from huge clubs arrive, they’re always welcome... Now I’m in a city that has supported me incredibly since day one. I’ll always be here because I feel good, because I’m happy."

"You never know when it comes to football. As long as they want me, those who are needed at Inter will be here. But right now I’m here with all my heart, just like I was on day one."

Arsenal Left Facing Attacking Questions

Missing out on a top striker leaves Arteta with tough decisions ahead. While Kai Havertz has made a positive start to the season, he often plays as a flexible forward rather than a traditional number nine. Viktor Gyokeres, another option, has yet to appear in Arsenal’s first two Premier League matches, hinting that Arteta might not fully trust him upfront.

This lack of options helps explain Arsenal’s push for reinforcements in attack and the urgency behind their late-window moves.

• Targets: Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, Victor Osimhen
• Departures: Gabriel Jesus
• New Signings: Bruno Guimaraes, Piero Hincapie
• Martinez's 2025-26 Stats: 22 goals in 41 appearances