The Nigerian striker is set for a showdown with the Magpies hierarchy as he is ever more strongly linked with Arsenal, with the withdrawal of the offer of a contract extension made earlier this year at the root of his unrest.
Discussions over a new deal worth more than £80,000 a week have not yet been followed up as United owner Mike Ashley resolved to lower the club's wage bill.
Though Newcastle remain dubious about the seriousness of the Gunners' interest in Martins, they will not be held to ransom by him and ... according to SKY TV ... "have discreetly identified a striker they believe could fill his shoes".