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MARTIAL FLAW

The reason Arsenal have decided not to sign Anthony Martial this summer

Arsene Wenger is desperate to strengthen his spine and is unwilling to shell out for his fellow Frenchman

ARSENAL have reportedly been put off by Anthony Martial’s price tag and will not enter a bidding war this summer.

Arsene Wenger is a long-term admirer of the French forward, 22, who has been linked with a Manchester United exit.

Anthony Martial has not scored for United since Alexis Sanchez’s arrival

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Anthony Martial has not scored for United since Alexis Sanchez’s arrival

But the Evening Standard claims the Gunners are unwilling to shell out around £60million and will pursue other options instead.


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After signing Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette this season, Arsenal want to improve their spine.

A central midfielder and centre-back are the main priorities, and a long-term option in goal is also needed.

Wenger enquired about Martial as part of the swap deal involving Alexis Sanchez but was told United would not let him go.

Anthony Martial was a target for Arsenal in January but United wouldn’t budge

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Anthony Martial was a target for Arsenal in January but United wouldn’t budge

Alexis Sanchez took Martial’s spot on the left wing

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Alexis Sanchez took Martial’s spot on the left wing

The Times reports the French striker was disappointed at not having the chance to discuss the move.

And since then, Martial has seen Sanchez take his favoured position to put his future under increased speculation.


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Martial’s cousin Jema has laid into Jose Mourinho – highlighting previous examples of the United boss’ tactics inhibiting the talents of top attacking players.

He tweeted: “It is impossible to progress under the orders of this coach. Too many examples prove it.

Arsene Wenger needs to work on the spine of his team after signing three new attackers this season

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Arsene Wenger needs to work on the spine of his team after signing three new attackers this season

“If you see the last two years and the past with Salah, De Bruyne or Lukaku at Chelsea, I don’t invent.

“I think that for young players who can improve he’s not the good one. Just a view.”