Luton want to smash transfer record for David Beckham’s striker but Lionel Messi could pose major stumbling block • Repithwin News

PREMIER LEAGUE new-boys Luton are making a shock bid to land Venezuelan striker Josef Martinez from David Beckham’s Inter Miami.

Hatters boss Rob Edwards is keen on the hitman who, despite starring in America, could be available at the right price.

GettyJosef Martínez is the man that Luton Town want to help fire them to safety[/caption]

Martinez, 30, is still at his peak and could fancy a late crack at the English game.

But he also has the tempting option of seeing out his career playing alongside Lionel Messi, who this week linked up with the ambitious MLS outfit.

Miami will want around £10million for Martinez and the Hatters have yet to reach that figure in talks.

Martinez can play anywhere across the frontline and has European experience with Young Boys of Berne and Torino in Italy.

Luton also hope to get a thumbs up from Manchester United for experienced keeper Tom Heaton.

Heaton, 37, is needed by United until they add new signings in that department but could be allowed to go once they have them.

Hatters need two new keepers but are finding it hard to come up with packages for either after losing out to QPR for free agent Asmir Begovic, 36.

Meanwhile, Luton have been forced to postpone their opening Premier League fixture with Burnley because Kenilworth Road won’t be ready in time for the opening day.

Luton will kick off their first-ever Premier League season away at Brighton on the opening day.

The following week the Hatters were due to play Burnley at Kenilworth Road, but that week will now be free for Rob Edwards’ side.

Luton’s first home match of the season is set to take place on Friday, September 1, against West Ham.

The Hatters will end the 2023/2024 season at home to Fulham on the final day.