CHELSEA and Manchester City are both tracking Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez but will have to fight off interest from Barcelona.
The Argentinian striker is attracting interest from Europe’s top clubs, with Chelsea and Manchester City both keen to bring the Inter star to the Premier League.
According to Spanish publication Sport, Barca are leading the chase for the 22-year-old, who has scored 16 times in all competitions for Inter this season.
Despite the interest, Martinez’s representative Alberto Yaque admits there has been no formal talks about his clients future.
Yaque told Radio del Plata: “His constant growth makes the best teams in the world notice him and have that concept.
“Hopefully he will be rewarded for his effort.
“We have chatted with many people, but nothing more.
“For now those who call me are not directly employed by the club.
“There is nothing formal or serious.
Chelsea are keen to add to their attacking options with Tammy Abraham, Olivier Giroud and Michy Batshauyi their only options up front.
Giroud and Batshauyi are both expected to leave Stamford Bridge this summer and Blues boss Frank Lampard will be eager to bolster his front line.
City’s ban from the Champions League could hinder their hopes of securing a deal for the striker, but the appeal of their squad and manager could still be enough to tempt Martinez to the Etihad.
Martinez is believed to have a clause in his contract that could see him depart for £100million – if triggered between July 1 and July 15 this summer.
The Spanish giants are also plotting a move for former winger Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain in their summer shopping spree.
Manager Quique Setien is considering a £250million deal for the Brazilian and Martinez as they look to strengthen for next season.
Ousmane Dembele could be allowed to leave the Nou Camp in a bid to raise funds, with the injury-hit winger struggling to make an impact since his arrival from Borussia Dortmund in 2017.
The Frenchman has only managed five league appearances this season but the Spanish giants are still hoping to receive £110m, which could put off potential suitors.
Arsenal were considering a move for the 22-year-old but are put off by the price tag for a player who has missed 63 matches through injury in just under three years.
Dembele’s attitude could also be a problem in securing a move away, after refusing to train with Dortmund in order to complete his transfer to Barcelona.
