Jackson Martinez has agreed to join Atletico Madrid ahead of the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal, who were reportedly interested in the Colombian striker.
Arsenal and Chelsea both seemed reluctant to pay the £24million release clause for Martinez, with Chelsea opting to sign his international teammate Falcao instead. Arsenal are reportedly monitoring the situation of Karim Benzema at Real Madrid – and may choose not to sign a forward if Benzema is not available.
AC Milan were heavy favourites to sign the forward, but Martinez and his agent always maintained that the player would be moving to a top European club, and Milan are not in Europe.
The Colombian’s decision to join Atletico has been praised by many, with fans suggesting he clearly is an ambitious player and not just tempted by the money and lifestyle in Milan. Some fans are annoyed that their club didn’t sign him as Martinez’ 7 Champions League goals last season showed just how good he can be. Will he be the next striking hero at Atletico?
Can't blame Jackson Martinez for not wanting to join a mediocre mid table Serie A team. Atletico fits him well, could explode there.
— Spanish Gooner (@ElSpanishGooner) June 23, 2015
Jackson Martinez has signed for Atletico on a 4 year deal according to his agent, great signing!
— Thibauted (@Thibauted) June 23, 2015
Martinez confirmed as Atletico player despite wanting to join Arsenal his impatience got the better of him he also slated British weather…
— Football Today (@goldnewsuk) June 23, 2015
Happy with Cech, gutted about Jackson Martinez though
— PepeGuiño (@Joe_Wink) June 23, 2015
Alteti & their tradition of having good strikers continues with Jackson Martinez.
— M.A.J (@UltraSuristic) June 23, 2015
So gutted Jackson Martinez isn't coming to the prem
— Cal (@_Caaaal) June 13, 2015
J.Martinez confirmed. Griezman to Chelsea pls @ChelseaFC @Atleti
— Farhan Izani (@farhanizzani) June 23, 2015