Jackson Martinez recently admitted he will be leaving Porto at the end of the season, but has not yet decided on his next destination.
The Colombian forward has netted 16 goals in 20 Primeira Liga appearances so far this season for Porto, and following his latest comments about his upcoming departure from the Estadio Do Dragao, the 28-year-old has been linked with a move to England – with Arsenal and Manchester United both keen on the striker.
And Arsene Wenger has fuelled talk of a potential move for Martinez after praising the forward ability and suggesting he will be the next big player to leave Porto, who have previously sold big stars like Radamel Falcao, James Rodriguez and Joao Moutinho.
Quoted in the Daily Mail, the Frenchman had nothing but good words to say about the Colombia international:
‘[He has] top physical strengths. Hugely efficient, he is the kind of player who can make room for himself in the box.
‘He could play in the Premier League because he has the body to make the difference. He uses it in a very intelligent way. Very short back lift and he’s a very good finisher.’
‘He’s on the list of many clubs, you know that. He will be the next big transfer who will give a big smile to Pinto da Costa [Porto’s owner].’
Martinez still has two-and-a-half years left to run on his current deal at Porto and is valued presently at around £27 million – Porto, however, will more than likely demand a higher fee for their prized asset.
Will he be Arsenal’s next big transfer target when the summer transfer window opens at the end of the season?
His age is on the wrong way side of the game now and probably that’s why Porto will be willing to offload him in the summer.
Saying for years that I would love it if he came to AFC. Who will leave toke way?