Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger reveals admiration for Porto striker Jackson Martinez

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has praised Porto striker Jackson Martinez and admits the player has what it takes to thrive in the Premier League.

The Colombia international has been heavily linked with a number of Premier League clubs during the past year after garnering a reputation as one of the world's most clinical strikers, having scored 85 goals in 120 appearances since replacing Radamel Falcao at Porto.

Reports in the summer of 2014 claimed Arsenal and Chelsea were interested in his services, while in recent times Tottenham and Liverpool have been said to be closely monitoring the situation, with Reds manager Brendan Rodgers reportedly earmarking him as the ideal striker to fill the void left by Luis Suarez.

Martinez, who has a €35m (£26m) release clause at Porto, all but confirmed earlier in February his intention to make a step forward to a major league.

"I am clear that summer will surely be my departure for a new club. I cannot say a league or team in particular. There is much speculation and rumours always come around my transfer," he said to El Espectador.

"To tell you the truth, I do not know which teams are asking for my services because I ask my agent not talk to me about these possibilities, because I need to focus on Porto. Come the summer I will find my way out. England, Italy? Maybe, but for now I do not know."

And Wenger has fuelled speculation about a summer move after revealing his admiration for the player.

"Top physical strengths," the manager said about Martinez when speaking to beIN Sports.

"Hugely efficient, he is the kind of player who can make room for himself in the box. He could play in the Premier League because he has the body to make the difference. He uses it in a very intelligent way. Very short back lift and he's a very good finisher."

"He's on the list of many clubs, you know that. He will be the next big transfer who will give a big smile to Pinto da Costa [Porto's owner]."