Exclusive: Borussia Mönchengladbach and Wolfsburg Set for Transfer Battle Over LAFC Starlet David Martínez

David Martínez, the 19-year-old Venezuelan winger who has been turning heads with his technical prowess in MLS, is increasingly being linked with European "stepping stone" clubs for the next chapter of his career. 

Borussia Mönchengladbach and VfL Wolfsburg are gearing up for a head-to-head battle for David Martínez, with both Bundesliga clubs having dispatched scouts to closely monitor the Venezuelan winger during the closing stages of the MLS season as their interest intensifies.

While he remains on the "ones to watch" lists of elite giants, it is the mid-table Bundesliga and Premier League sides, where he can secure consistent playing time, that appear most eager to secure his signature.

Bundesliga’s "Talent Factories" on High Alert 

Unlike the perennial top-four contenders in Germany, clubs with a proven culture of polishing and selling young talents are taking more concrete steps for Martínez.

Scouts from Borussia Mönchengladbach and VfL Wolfsburg are reported to be closely monitoring his development at LAFC.

Internal sources point to Eintracht Frankfurt or Hoffenheim as optimal destinations, given their systems that offer creative freedom to technical wingers.

Current reports praise his "quick decision-making" while noting he still needs to work on "defensive contribution and 90-minute stamina."

Premier League Interest 

On the English front, Martínez’s name is circulating among clubs famous for scouting the South American market. 

Brighton & Hove Albion have added Martínez to their shortlist through their renowned scouting network, although they are likely to monitor him for longer because of ongoing work-permit considerations.

Brentford and Bournemouth are both in the market for attacking creativity and see Martínez as a low-risk, high-reward investment.

In other LAFC news, the MLS side have reportedly held exploratory talks with Manchester United midfielder Casemiro over a potential move when his contract expires at the end of the European season.

The Physical Challenge

While scouts are impressed by his dribbling, questions remain regarding his ability to withstand the high-intensity, physical nature of English football.

Having been a standout for LAFC during the 2025 season, Martínez is a valuable asset.

While his current market value is around €4 million, it is estimated that LAFC would only consider offers in the €15-20 million range.

For Martínez, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of a critical choice: either warming the bench at a world-class giant or taking on a leading role at a mid-tier European club.