Arsenal Launch Bid for Girona Star Arnau Martinez Near Transfer Deadline Day

Arsenal have officially lodged a bid for Girona right-back Arnau Martínez. Boss Mikel Arteta is determined to strengthen his defensive options before the summer transfer window closes. According to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, the Gunners have offered €8 million upfront.

They’ve also offered an additional €2 million in performance-related bonuses, taking the potential deal to €10 million. The move comes amid fitness concerns over Jurrien Timber and Ben White. They also suffered an injury-plagued season last term. Timber impressed in Arsenal’s 5-0 win against Leeds United with two goals and an assist.

🚨EXCL: 🔴⚪️ 🔵🔴 🇪🇸🇫🇷 #PL|

❗️Double deal between Girona and Crystal Palace!

💰 Arnau Martínez could leave Girona to join Palace. Fee: €10M including bonuses.

🆚️ Odsonne Édouard goes the other way for a flat €6M fee.

🔐 Deal almost agreed between both clubs… pic.twitter.com/MZDZaFvM4r
— Santi Aouna (@Santi_J_FM) August 2, 2025

However, he is being carefully managed following his long injury layoff. White also missed that match due to a knock. This has left Arsenal short at the back. Arteta admitted the club is taking a cautious approach: “On Jurrien, we have to manage his load. He’s been out for a long time.” Hence, reinforcement is needed.

Arnau Martinez: Experience and Versatility

Martinez, 22, has spent his entire professional career at Girona. He has made 163 appearances for the Spanish club in all competitions. He contributed nine goals and 18 assists. Known for his attacking output and defensive consistency, the defender played 39 games last season.

Also Read: Transfer Deadline Watch: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Rodrygo, and More Big Names in Play

He also scored three goals and provided three assists. His versatility is another key factor, as he can also operate as a centre-back when needed. Martinez previously drew interest from European heavyweights like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayer Leverkusen.

However, no move materialised and he has remained a mainstay in Michel’s side until now. Even so, he was recently excluded from Girona’s squad against Villarreal. This further fueled speculation that a transfer could be imminent for the defender.

Also Read: Everton Seal £42M Deal for Southampton Winger Tyler Dibling

Arsenal Transfer Window Deadline Push

If Martinez signs, he would become Arsenal’s eighth signing of the summer. He’d be joining high-profile arrivals such as Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres, and Eberechi Eze. The Gunners have already spent over £230m this window. The Gunners have also been linked with Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie. However, his £52m release clause makes a deal unlikely.

Compared to that, Martinez represents a cost-effective solution to bolster squad depth. With just days left before the September 1 deadline, Girona are currently evaluating Arsenal’s offer and a decision is expected soon. If Martínez arrives, he would have to compete with Ben White and Timber for the right-back role.

Arnau Martinez

Arsenal

Girona

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.