Argentina striker Martinez close to joining Inter Milan

Buenos Aires March 21 (IANS) Argentina forward Lautaro Martinez confirmed on Wednesday that he is close to joining Italian Serie A club Inter Milan.

The 20-year-old has caught the attention of European clubs by scoring 11 goals in 10 matches across all competitions for Argentina s Racing Club this year reports Xinhua news agency.

He was rewarded for his prolific form by earning his first call-up to Argentina s national squad for international friendlies against Italy on Friday and Spain next Tuesday.

"Everything is almost set " Martinez told reporters on Tuesday. "There are some final details to be worked out but when I come back to Argentina there will be a meeting with my agent and everything will be settled " he said.

"I keep repeating though that right now my only thought is about Racing. I want to give 100% for this club and help achieve our objectives " Martinez added.

Martinez acknowledged that the upcoming friendlies could allow him to stake a claim for a berth in Argentina s squad for the World Cup.

Argentina have been drawn in the same group as Croatia Iceland and Nigeria for the June 14-July 15 tournament in Russia.

"Everything has happened very quickly. It came as a bit of a surprise (to receive the call-up) " he said.

"I worked very hard to get here and I m happy I get to experience something I have always dreamed about. I can t wait to meet the whole group not just Lionel Messi."

--IANS
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