109-goal South American striker could be ‘good fit’ at Old Trafford

Manchester United target Lautaro Martinez could be an ideal Old Trafford signing as the Inter Milan star is prolific and has an admirable work-rate, according to South American football journalist Tim Vickery.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s explosive interview, where he claimed he feels betrayed by the club, has led to serious doubts over his future and boss Erik ten Hag may seek a replacement in the January transfer window.

What’s the latest news involving Martinez?

According to Italian media outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, Manchester United are in pursuit of Martinez and have lodged an enquiry over the possibility of completing his acquisition.

But the Red Devils are not the only side showing an interest in the 40-cap Argentina international as the report suggests, although he is happy at Inter, French giants Paris Saint-Germain are also mulling over whether to make a move.

Martinez’s current employers are in a strong negotiating position as his contract, which is worth in the region of £186,000-per-week, still has just shy of four years to run.

But Manchester United could reportedly try to persuade Inter into selling the striker by offering Ronaldo, Aaron Wan-Bissaka or Donny van de Beek in a player-plus-cash swap deal.

Martinez is preparing to head to Qatar, having been included in the Argentina squad for the fast-approaching World Cup.

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

What has Tim Vickery said about Martinez?

Vickery believes Martinez’s style of play means he would be able to adapt to the system put in place by Manchester United chief ten Hag seemlessly.

The journalist feels the 25-year-old is deadly in front of goal and not afraid to get stuck into challenges.

When asked whether Martinez would be a perfect addition to Manchester United’s squad due to his ability to press from the front, Vickery told GIVEMESPORT: “He can certainly do that. He can certainly play that game and he is more than just an out-and-out number nine.

“He’s mobile and versatile, but he’s also simple and uncomplicated. You put the ball in front of him and it goes into the back of the net whether it be left foot, right foot or in the air.

“I think he might well be a fit for United.”

Would Martinez be a good signing for Manchester United?

Martinez has shown throughout his career that he is a huge asset at the top end of the pitch, having found the back of the net 109 times and registered a further 36 assists at club level.

He has also started the campaign well, having gone into the domestic break as Inter’s top scorer and with an average match rating of 7.21 in Serie A, which is a better figure than all of his team-mates.

Statistics show Martinez could be the ideal replacement for Ronaldo as he has more goals, assists and shots on target per 90 minutes than the wantaway 37-year-old this season.

The South American also leads from the front and contributes defensively, having averaged 0.7 clearances, 0.6 tackles and 0.4 interceptions per Serie A outing, so ten Hag should look to wrap up a deal.

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