Newcastle granted Martins transfer request

Arsenal have intensified their interest in Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins, who has reportedly received permission to speak to other clubs…Martins has been told he can leave St James’ Park if any of his suitors should match or better his ₤15million asking price.But the Nigerian international could go for less if he hands in a transfer request, which would trigger a ₤13million release clause.And the 23-year-old may do just that, having recently agreed a new ₤80,000-per-week deal only to have it scrapped at the last moment as the Magpies seek to trim their wage bill.A source close to the player said: “It is a shock Newcastle cannot find the money any more for his new deal but he is a player a lot of clubs want.”Arsenal have long been linked with Martins, but manager Arsene Wenger has so far refused to budge from his ₤11million evaluation of the former Internazionale star.However, the Frenchman may well give up an extra ₤2million as his squad will look desperately low on firepower if he does not make some key purchases this summer.The Gunners will be without Eduardo da Silva for at least the first few months of next season, while Robin van Persie is yet to prove he can string more than two games together and Emmanuel Adebayor appears increasingly certain to leave the Emirates.