Rumour: Barcelona set to rival Arsenal for Bayern Munich’s £30m Javi Martinez

Javier Martinez of Bayern looks on during the Bundesliga match between 1. FSV Mainz 05 and FC Bayern Muenchen at Coface Arena

Barcelona are to challenge Arsenal in the pursuit of £30 million-rated Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez, according to the Daily Mail.

With Bayer Leverkusen’s Lars Bender insisting he will remain at Bayer , Arsenal have been alerted to Martinez’s possible availability and are believed to have enquired about him.

The 25-year old, who can operate as a defensive midfielder or central defender, has become increasingly disillusioned with a lack of starting opportunities under Pep Guardiola and is seriously thinking about leaving the Allianz Arena.

With the Catalan giants under a transfer embargo next year, it is understood that the upcoming summer transfer window will be a huge one for the club as they pursue a number of targets – Martinez one of them.

Their defence has been in need of upgrading for some time but with Carles Puyol leaving in the summer and Gerard Pique picking up niggling injuries, Barcelona are thought to be looking at Martinez due to his versatility and potential ability in the long-term.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are looking for solutions to bolster their midfield, which has fallen apart in 2014. It is thought that Barca will not hesitate to spend the required £30m on him. It is currently uncertain what Arsene Wenger is willing to pay for the Spaniard.