Lautaro Martínez set for Inter move as Atlético balk at new release clause

Atlético Madrid have reportedly lost out in the race for Racing Club de Avellanda striker Lautaro Martínez. The 20-year-old is set to join Inter Milan next summer according to reports with the €18 million release clause of an untested attacker proving too steep for los rojiblancos.

Atlético had been keen on signing him at €9 million and even went as high as €12 million during negotiations, but a recent contract renewal which bumped his clause up to €18 million forced the club to walk away.

Martínez is set to be called up to Jorge Sampaoli’s Argentina squad for upcoming international friendlies with the albiceleste playing Spain at the Wanda Metropolitano in March. The Argentine manager is enamoured with the striker but he faces an uphill task to make the World Cup squad this coming summer.

Martínez could also end up being a Mauro Icardi replacement should he move. Icardi who has been linked heavily with a move to Real Madrid and will cost upwards €100 million.