It is an interesting rumour, and looking at Martin's qualities on the ball, it is a very unsurprising move from Arsene Wenger. I took a look at Marvin Martin back in June when Manchester United were rumoured to be interested in bringing him in as a future replacement for Scholes, and I liked what I saw.
I would love to see how the French creative midfielder fares in the Premier League, and considering his age, nationality and relatively small price tag of around (although probably a few million over) £10 million, it looks a typical Arsene Wenger signing is on the cards. Below is an extract from the article I did on the player a few months ago, providing some useful information on the player for Arsenal fans who know little about him. Bare in mind, the article was written in the context of United's interest:
"Marvin Martin is a 23 year-old Frenchman currently playing for the Ligue 1 side Sochaux. He had a stunning season last year, especially in terms of what United would be looking for; creativity. Four goals (one of which was a stunning chip from the edge of the area), and an extremely impressive 17 assists. Indeed, the player himself confirmed in an interview in May that to create goals is his role in Sochaux: "that's my role in the team. I'm here to try and create goals."
Martin was nominated for France's Young Player of the Season award, which was eventually won by Mamdou Sakho, and has been described as a player with "very good technique on the ball" and "excellent vision." He is also a very good passer of the ball from watching him in action. His rise to "stardom", if you like at Sochaux has been very quick, yet from reading his interviews, he seems a down to earth and grounded young man, who is not phased by the links to big clubs. When the interviewer was bigging him up, Martin responded maturely: "Let's not get carried away! I'm still a long way off being a star." and on that wonderful goal he scored said: "But one goal doesn't make a career!"
United could do far worse in this young man. Apparently, there are a few French clubs understandably interested in signing the player, with a £7 million bid from Lille already being rejected. The Sochaux club president retaliated angrily to French clubs' interest in Martin, saying: "I repeat for the 18-millionth time: Marvin is staying."
[view the complete original article with video]
The Arsenal manager is known for delving into the French market, and has done so frequently in the past - the most recent success story being that of Samir Nasri, whom he bought from Marseille. However, Wenger will be looking to replace Fabregas and Nasri very soon - it is though Martin would be bought as a replacement for Fabregas - so if he does join, expect him to be deployed in the central midfield role, creating chances as he did for Sochaux last season.
There remains the insistence from the French sides' club President that the player will not be sold, but a considerable sum would surely soon change his mind. Nevertheless, we will see in the coming weeks if there is any truth behind the rumours, and looking at the potential Martin has, Arsenal fans will be hoping so.
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