Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a late summer bid for Girona defender Arnau Martinez.
Arsenal have made an official approach to Girona for defender Arnau Martinez, with French transfer insider Santi Aouna reporting via X that the Gunners have tabled a proposal worth €8 million plus €2 million in bonuses.
Arsenal eyeing a defender signing
Arsenal’s interest in strengthening their defensive options before the September 1 deadline has been clear for weeks. While Piero Hincapie of Bayer Leverkusen remains a long-term target, the Ecuadorian’s €60 million release clause has proven a major stumbling block. Martinez, by contrast, offers a much more affordable route at less than a fifth of the price.
The 22-year-old Spaniard has spent his entire career at Girona, amassing 163 appearances, nine goals, and 18 assists in all competitions. Primarily a right-back, the young defender has also featured at centre-back, showcasing the kind of tactical versatility Mikel Arteta often looks for in his defenders.
Another major departure from Girona?
Girona have been one of the more open sellers in La Liga this summer, having already sanctioned the exit of Miguel Gutierrez. Losing Martinez, however, would be another major body blow, especially given his contract runs until 2026. The Catalan club may hold out for his €14 million release clause rather than accepting a lower bid from Arsenal, though the Gunners’ offer could yet tempt them as the window ticks down.
Arsenal are not alone in the race. Napoli are reportedly monitoring Martinez as an alternative to Sevilla’s Juanlu Sanchez, while West Ham United have also been credited with interest. With Girona weighing their options and multiple clubs circling, Arsenal may need to act decisively if they want to secure the player.
At just 22, Martinez fits perfectly into Arsenal’s youth-first recruitment model. His ability to defend in wide areas, progress the ball, and slot into central roles makes him a modern full-back suited to Arteta’s fluid system. With Arsenal competing on multiple fronts this season, including the UEFA Champions League, depth in defence is a priority.
If the deal goes through, Arsenal would be adding a “complete” young defender at a fraction of the cost of other targets, while also investing in someone with significant room to grow.