The powers that be at Paris Saint Germain have not relented in their pursuit of Europe's finest young talent and now they have turned their predatory...
The powers that be at Paris Saint Germain have not relented in their pursuit of Europe's finest young talent and now they have turned their predatory gaze towards the La Fabrica of Real Madrid. After successfully luring the Barcelona prodigy Dro Fernandez from the Camp Nou during the January window, the French champions are now plotting to lay siege to the Santiago Bernabeu for their next prize. The jewel in question is the 18 year old defender Joan Martinez, a centre back who has been turning heads with his composure and reading of the game. While the Blaugrana were left nursing a deep wound after losing one of their brightest prospects, the scenario in Madrid promises to be a far stiffer battle. Los Blancos are known for their iron grip on their developmental gems and they will not surrender Martinez without a fierce fight. In the scheme of things, this transfer saga could shape the defensive future of both clubs. At the end of the day, PSG will need to bring their full financial artillery to the negotiating table if they hope to secure the signature of this young stalwart. GoalZaza understands that the player's camp has not yet given any indication of a desire to leave the Spanish capital, but the allure of the French capital and the promise of first team minutes remains a formidable weapon in PSG's arsenal. Here in Nigeria, the reaction from fans gathered at the popular viewing centres in Surulere and the bustling spots in Abuja will be one of animated debate. The elders will stroke their chins and remind the younger lads that Real Madrid does not sell its future stars without a hefty price tag while the younger fans will be comparing Martinez's potential to the rise of William Troost Ekong. Many will draw parallels to the Super Eagles' own defensive difficulties and argue that a player of this calibre would be a welcome addition to any top side in Europe. The air will be thick with the smell of suya and the sound of passionate voices dissecting every detail of this transfer rumour as if it were a decisive World Cup qualifier. For the Nigerian football fan, every twist in the transfer window is a matter of national interest.
