Soldado ploy may see Spurs edge Liverpool in Martinez race
Published:
In a shock revelation Tottenham and Liverpool appear to have eyes on the same transfer target, but it is the former who may gain the advantage thanks to a Roberto Soldado-shaped carrot.
Jackson Martinez has long been the subject of speculation linking him with Premier League shores and once again the prolific Porto striker is in high demand as January approaches.
Liverpool continue to be mentioned among the forerunners for Martinez’s signature, though Tottenham’s reported Soldado-plus-cash offer could be more attractive to Porto should they let the Colombian go.
Even though Spurs’ Spanish striker has failed to acclimatise to the English game, Soldado did come with a reputation as a top goal scorer in his native land and Portuguese football is a lot closer to that La Liga brand.
Before joining Tottenham in the summer of 2013, the number nine had just bagged himself 30 goals for Valencia during the previous campaign, the third season in a row where his tally reached 25+ strikes.
However, at White Hart Lane the 29-year-old’s career has stalled and a move away could be just the bump-start it needs, while Spurs could also benefit as well.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side are only given an 8/1 chance to make the top-four thanks to a galling 3-0 defeat to Chelsea, leaving the Argentine to lament his side’s profligacy.
Harry Kane was once again the liveliest member of the Lilywhites striking contingent at Stamford Bridge, but the young Englishman needs an established big name alongside him.
Colombia international Martinez has already helped himself to 14 goals for Porto this season, and blessed with pace and athleticism, it is thought he could adapt well to Premier League rigours.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
Fancy a flutter? Sign up today to claim up to £25 in free bets.
