The Porto striker Jackson Martinez was reportedly ‘a few days’ from joining AC Milan last week, but now it seems he has not yet decided which team he will be playing for next season, with Arsenal being strongly linked since last summer.
The Colombian striker is currently at the Copa America, but in an interview he has made it clear that he has no idea even which country he will be going to, but does admit to a great admiration for Arsenal and the Premier League.
He was quoted as saying in the Star: “I’ve always had two players I’ve admired above all others: (Luis) Ronaldo and (Thierry) Henry. So I’m very happy he made that comment about me.
“Arsenal are a great team, playing in one of the best leagues in the world.
“I’m still waiting to see what the future holds. It’s not known yet but it will be known soon.
“For now I’m fully focused in the Copa America.
“Every player’s dream is to play where they can feel well and enjoy football, and that’s my dream too.
“Whether it’s in England, Italy or Spain, the most important thing is that my family and I both feel well and I can enjoy my football.”
To me, it is promising that he refuses to name the club, as we all know how secretive Arsene Wenger is about his targets discussing any talks in advance of signing the contract, but the fact is that there is no real indication that Arsenal are one of the suitors, other than the normal rumour mill.
I seriously like the idea of Martinez coming to the Emirates, but I’m not holding my breath!