Will Power

Friday, June 15, 2018

Martial's transfer options

Where will Anthony Martial be playing next season?

The Manchester United forward sparked transfer speculation this week when his representative Philippe Lamboley told French media outlet RMC Sport: "After thinking about all the possibilities and scenarios, Anthony wants to leave Manchester United."

While Lamboley admits his client's future remains in United's hands - and Sky sources understand the club are not looking to sell the player - Martial, who was omitted from the France World Cup squad, is now odds-against to stay at Old Trafford.

With that in mind, we look at his most likely destination...

Tottenham

Tottenham are the best backed option in Sky Bet's market as they look to prove they can match the ambitions of their players and manager. Chairman Daniel Levy has seemingly convinced Mauricio Pochettino he is willing to be brave in the transfer market, despite the expensive move to their new stadium, with the Argentine boss extending his three-year contract to five. Harry Kane followed by signing a six-year deal and Dele Alli and Christian Eriksen are expected to follow, but the signing would be a significant signing of Martial's ilk which would really ignite excitement for the new season.

Stay at Manchester United

Following Sky sources revealing United are not looking to sell Martial this summer, his odds of staying with the club currently stand at 6/4, according to Sky Bet. The France international - who still has one year left on his contract plus an option for a further season - was criticised by his manager Jose Mourinho at times last season but won praise later in the campaign as he found form towards the end of the season and may want to prove to the Portuguese he is good enough to succeed at Old Trafford.

Chelsea

Despite managerial uncertainty, the Chelsea board will still be keen to improve their ranks after a disappointing season saw them fall short both in Europe and the Premier League. The potential departure of Brazil winger Willian, who was linked with Manchester United, could provide the opportunity for FA Cup winners Chelsea to move for Martial in a possible swap deal.

Arsenal

Arsenal have been linked with Martial previously when Alexis Sanchez made the swap from London to Manchester in January, but United instead orchestrated a swap-style deal for Henrikh Mkhitaryan to secure the Chile international. Unai Emery will undoubtedly want to improve his new side in his quest to regain Champions League football at the Emirates Stadium and Martial would boost their already talented attack.

PSG

Emery's former club Paris Saint-Germain may deliver the perfect opportunity for Martial to return to his homeland whilst still plying his trade among Europe's elite. Newly installed boss Thomas Tuchel will be eager to improve on PSG's mediocre Champions League finishes of recent years, and has the financial muscle to match any rival bidders, while saving United from selling to a Premier League rival. Their intent to recruit a forward would certainly increase if there is any truth to rumours linking Neymar to Real Madrid.

Other options

With Antoine Griezmann's uncertain future 'decided', Atletico Madrid are to move to line Martial up as a replacement should Griezmann choose to depart. German champions Bayern Munich could also provide a viable alternative, with new manager Niko Kovac on the lookout for replacements if ageing duo Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery leave.

Credit: Skysports.com

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