"Long-term target" – Journalist drops claim as Tottenham could make second attempt for £70m star

Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte is a ‘big fan’ of Inter striker Lautaro Martinez, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The pair worked together during Conte’s two-year spell in charge of the Nerazzurri and could be reunited in north London during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Last summer, Tottenham were heavily linked with a £60 million move for Martinez, who has been described as “spectacular”, as they looked to add some firepower to their forward line.

But despite holding talks with the Inter hierarchy, Spurs were unable to agree a deal for the Argentina international as they didn’t want to lose both of their star forwards in the same window following Romelu Lukaku’s departure.

Martinez ended up staying put and committing his future to the reigning Serie A champions, penning a new five-year contract in October 2021.

However, according to The Times, due to Inter’s ongoing financial troubles, they are now prepared to cash in on their prized asset and have placed a £70m price tag on him.

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Tottenham’s local rivals Arsenal are said to be keen to snap up his services, but with Martinez desperate to play Champions League football, it remains to be seen if they are a viable option.

Only four points separate the Lilywhites and the Gunners in the race for a top-four finish, and the outcome of that particular battle could determine where Martinez is playing his football next term.

Martinez flourished under the tutelage of Conte, registering 40 goals and 19 assists in 97 appearances during his Inter reign, claiming the Scudetto together along the way.

And O’Rourke has revealed the South American is a ‘long-term