In a bold move that could revolutionize their squad, Arsenal is reportedly willing to obliterate their existing transfer record to secure the signing of Lautaro Martinez this summer. However, convincing the Inter Milan striker to swap Italy for London could be a challenge following his recent statements.

The Gunners' call for a new centre-forward has grown louder, especially after injuries sidelined key players Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz earlier this season. With neither truly fitting the mold of a classic number nine, Mikel Arteta is under increasing pressure to bolster his front line.

Arteta expressed disappointment with the team's inactivity in the January transfer window, and with the Premier League title slipping from their grasp once again, the urgency for a top-notch striker is palpable.

Arsenal’s current transfer record stands with the acquisition of Declan Rice, valued at a staggering £105 million ($134 million). However, reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes suggest this team is prepared to smash that record with a jaw-dropping €150 million ($165.6 million) offer for the talented forward.

Despite the massive fee potentially being enough to turn heads at Inter, the Italian giants are unlikely to part ways with the 27-year-old, especially after he penned a new five-year contract that keeps him at the club until 2029.

Adding fuel to the speculation, Martinez indicated he is in no rush to leave the Serie A team. The Argentine international, who has netted 148 goals in 323 appearances since joining Inter in 2018, expressed his desire to stay in Milan.

In a previous interview with Sky Italy, he stated, "I would gladly play for Inter my whole career. I am very happy here; I renewed my contract last summer, deciding to stay." This sentiment suggests he is not actively pushing for a transfer.

With Martinez possibly off the table, Arsenal might need to shift their focus to other striker options such as Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, or Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP.

As Arsenal continues their quest for a lethal number nine, tension mounts over a failing pursuit of other attacking talents. Can Arteta find the right fit, or will the Gunners face another transfer window disappointment?