Jackson Martinez Transfer News: Colombian Star’s Huge Porto Buy Out Clause Could Deter Arsenal

Porto will only allow Jackson Martinez to leave if any club can meet his buy-out clause.
Jackson Martinez Transfer News: Colombian Star’s Huge Porto Buy Out Clause Could Deter Arsenal
Colombia's forward Jackson Martinez celebrates after socring his second goal during the Group C football match between Japan and Colombia at the Pantanal Arena in Cuiaba during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 24, 2014. (TOSHIFUMI KITAMURA/AFP/Getty Images)
7/27/2014
Updated:
7/18/2015

Porto will only allow Jackson Martinez to leave if any club can meet his buy-out clause.

The 27-year-old Colombian striker played well at World Cup 2014 and during his time at Porto — 23 goals for Porto in 40 appearances in all competitions during the 2013/2014 season according to WhoScored — and has since been linked with a move away from the Portuguese league.

However, Porto director general Antero Henrique told O Jogo that “Jackson will only leave Porto for his release clause,” which is believed to be £32 million ($54.2 million).

This means that clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, AC Milan, Roma, and Valencia could be deterred from making a move for Martinez.

Of the three English Premier League sides, Martinez is most in favor of joining Arsenal.

“I cheered for Arsenal when I was a kid – I love their style of play,” said Martinez.

“It’s flowing and open with a lot of first touch passes.

“It would be suitable for a player like me. 

“If I get a chance to play for a high level club like Arsenal I wouldn’t hesitate to accept it,” Martinez added.

Given that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger just splashed out about £30-35 million ($50.9-59.4 million) in signing Alexis Sanchez from Barcelona, it is uncertain if he is willing to reach into the coffers for another big money move this summer.

Larry Ong is a New York-based journalist with Epoch Times. He writes about China and Hong Kong. He is also a graduate of the National University of Singapore, where he read history.