Luton’s hopes of signing Inter Miami striker Josef Martinez have been dealt a blow by the arrival of Lionel Messi at the DRV PNK Stadium.
According to Alan Nixon, Martinez has forged a relationship with the 7x Ballon d’Or winner and the pair have been close in training since Messi made the switch to the MLS.
The Hatters are trying to secure a deal for the Venezuelan forward, but are short of the Herons’ £10million valuation so would require the player to push for an exit.
Martinez is now unlikely to do that, however, as he is enjoying life being a teammate of the 2022 World Cup winner.
A situation that could arise and leave the 30-year-old surplus to requirements is if Gerardo Martino’s side secured the signing of Luis Suarez.
In this case, Miami could make Martinez available if the right fee and package was presented by Luton.
Having only signed for the Herons in January of this year, the striker is most well-known for his time spent with Atlanta United.
Martinez scored an incredible 111 goals, also registering 17 assists, in 158 appearances for the the Five Stripes between 2017 and 2022.
He has scored six and assisted one during his time in Miami so far, just 20 games into his spell at the club.
Prior to his move to the MLS, the Venezuela international featured for Caracas, Young Boys, Thun, and Torino.
Over the course of his time with the aforementioned sides, he managed just 35 goals in total, spreading over 188 appearances.
It is safe to say that he made his name in America.
Is Martinez the man?
The Hatters’ current strike options are Carlton Morris, Elijah Adebayo and Cauley Woodrow. Extra firepower is needed, so it is clear to see why they are attempting to lure the explosive Martinez to Kenilworth Road.
Luton do need backup options, however, as should this deal collapse they are looking pretty light in attack ahead of their maiden Premier League campaign.
This is certainly one to keep an eye on.