Lille OSC Trying to Beat Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham to Playmaker's Signature

Lille OSC is looking within the borders of France for Eden Hazard’s replacement. FC Sochaux’s midfield dynamo Marvin Martin has been targeted by the club as the playmaker they need to fill the void left by Hazard. Lille is looking to complete the transfer quickly as reports have surfaced that Martin has been given until Wednesday to make his decision.

Lille’s rush to complete the signing may be to prevent the price from rising if Martin impresses for France at Euro 2012. The other reason to move quickly is the interest in Martin from Premier League trio Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham. All three have scouted the French playmaker with great interest, and are not the only foreign clubs interested in adding Martin to their club.

Holding off the likes of the Gunners, Reds and Spurs is a tall order to begin with. Lille’s prospects have also taken a hit from Martin stating he was ready to play overseas.

Arsenal would seem a likely destination with Arsene Wenger’s history of bringing his fellow countrymen to the club. Arsenal also holds the trump card of Champions League competition over their rivals. The problem for Arsenal may be fitting Martin into a playmaking role in a midfield with Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshire and Mikel Arteta.

Liverpool is looking to rebound from a disappointing campaign. The new regime has talent at its disposal, but still lacks some key components. A player of Martin’s skills who can create chances for others and finish his own chances will fit in well in Liverpool.

Tottenham needs to strengthen their attacking options in order to wrestle third place away from Arsenal while holding off Chelsea and others. Martin could slide perfectly into the midfield, especially if Gareth Bale exits from Spurs this summer.

If Martin spurns Lille in favor of a chance to play in England, LOSC will have to turn elsewhere to replace Hazard. The problem is the lack of creative midfielders who can perform in Lille’s attack like Hazard at a price the club can afford. Martin is an ideal solution for LOSC, but he is considered a solution for many other teams as well.