June 28, 2007
ARSENAL boss Arsene Wenger wants Obafemi Martins to replace Thierry Henry.
The Nigerian striker, 22, has a £13million buy-out clause in his Newcastle contract.
Gunners boss Wenger has £16m from skipper Henry’s Barcelona switch to play with and a swoop for the 17-goal Toon ace would give him further room for manoeuvre in the transfer market.
St James’ Park chief Sam Allardyce has met with Martins to discuss the hitman’s future after he refused to play against Watford in the final game of last season.
Big Sam wants Martins to stay but knows he might ask to leave if a club of Arsenal’s stature makes a formal offer.
So far, the Gunners have not tabled an official bid but Wenger has set the wheels in motion and Martins’ advisors are aware of the interest from the Emirates.
ARSENAL boss Arsene Wenger wants Obafemi Martins to replace Thierry Henry.
The Nigerian striker, 22, has a £13million buy-out clause in his Newcastle contract.
Gunners boss Wenger has £16m from skipper Henry’s Barcelona switch to play with and a swoop for the 17-goal Toon ace would give him further room for manoeuvre in the transfer market.
St James’ Park chief Sam Allardyce has met with Martins to discuss the hitman’s future after he refused to play against Watford in the final game of last season.
Big Sam wants Martins to stay but knows he might ask to leave if a club of Arsenal’s stature makes a formal offer.
So far, the Gunners have not tabled an official bid but Wenger has set the wheels in motion and Martins’ advisors are aware of the interest from the Emirates.