Martinez won't go cheap

03 June 2009 12:08
Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins insists he has not given Wigan permission to speak to Roberto Martinez as their valuation is too low.[LNB] On Tuesday, the Latics made an official approach for Martinez as they prepare for the expected departure of current boss Steve Bruce, who is set to take over at Sunderland.[LNB]The Lancashire outfit were, however, knocked back by the Swan's £2million-plus compensation demands for the Spaniard, who spent six years at Wigan as a player.[LNB]Martinez only signed a new five-year contract last year after winning the League One title, and Jenkins insists the club will stand firm over the man behind their success.[LNB]"Wigan asked for permission to speak to Roberto," Jenkins revealed. "They asked what compensation we would be looking for and we talked about different figures.[LNB]"I told them what I valued Roberto at and they told me what they thought - we were miles apart to say the least.[LNB]"I have not given them permission to speak to Roberto."[LNB]In DemandMartinez, who returns to the country from a holiday on Wednesday, has earned rave reviews for his work at the Liberty Stadium, guiding them to eighth position in the Championship in their first season back in the second tier.[LNB]The 35-year-old is one of the most sought after young managers in the game, with reported interest also coming from Celtic, Reading and Real Sociedad, but Martinez has distanced himself from claims he has already agreed a switch. [LNB]"No quotes from me are true because I have not spoken to the press," Martinez told the Western Mail.[LNB]With Martinez possibly out of reach, Wigan are turning their attention to other young managers with potential in the Football League, most notably Darren Ferguson.[LNB]Ferguson, the son of legendary Manchester United boss Sir Alex, has guided Peterborough to back-to-back promotions as they return to England's second tier next season.[LNB]However, Peterborough director of football Barry Fry has quashed suggestions Wigan are looming and claims his friend Steve Bruce has told him they only have eyes for Martinez.[LNB]"We've only had one enquiry and that was from Reading (which was rejected)," Fry said.[LNB]"I'm close to Steve Bruce, he tells me Martinez is going to Wigan and I believe Steve Bruce."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports