Arsenal launched a dramatic late attempt to sign Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez in the final days of the summer transfer window, according to reports.
Arsenal made approach to sign Lautaro Martinez before deadline day
Martinez Stays Put: Arsenal Left Empty-Handed After Late Inter Approach
However, the Serie A champions immediately slammed the door shut on any potential deal for their captain.
The Premier League champions had spent much of the summer chasing Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez as their primary attacking target.
But Atletico refused to sell the 26-year-old, who also made it clear to Arsenal that his preference was to join Barcelona.
With their top target slipping away, Arsenal explored several alternatives, including Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, but ultimately failed to secure a late deal.
According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal assistant manager Gabriel Heinze personally reached out to his fellow Argentine last week to discuss a potential move to the Emirates Stadium.
Heinze, a former Manchester United defender who joined Arteta’s coaching staff in 2025, attempted to convince the Inter captain to make the switch to the Premier League.
But Inter responded emphatically, ruling out any possibility of Martinez leaving the club this summer.
The Nerazzurri remain in a strong negotiating position, with the Argentina international valued at €85 million (£73m) and still having three years remaining on his contract.
Martinez, 29, scored 22 goals in 41 appearances for Inter last season as they clinched the Serie A title.
Speaking in May, the striker made his loyalty clear: “No doubt I would like to retire at this club. You never know in football but if they don’t kick me out, I’m staying here”.
He later told Sky Sport Italy: “When these offers or calls from these huge clubs arrive, they’re always welcome.
But 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”.
