AC Milan reportedly wants Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli as a replacement for Tottenham’s Rafael Leao in January.
The Brazilian international is apparently on Milan’s radar as a Leao replacement. The 23-year-old attacker could leave in January, according to rumors.
Despite Antonio Conte’s many great strikers, Tottenham reportedly wants Leao. His release clause is reportedly £105m. This implies Arsenal has competition for the winger in north London.
Martinelli is considered one of Arsenal’s top players. He could become an international top attacker. The winger’s current contract expires in 2024, so the Gunners must sign him soon.
Many Arsenal fans see Martinelli as a key player under Mikel Arteta. Losing the winger to Milan in a deal orchestrated by Tottenham would be a heavy blow.
Such a chain of events is theoretically possible, but unlikely due to Leao’s high price tag and Martinelli’s stated intention to sign a new deal with Arsenal despite Milan’s interest.
Although Martinelli’s contract has 18 months left, the Gunners can’t rest on their laurels as Milan’s interest grows. Arsenal must extend Martinelli’s contract.
Arsenal should sign Martinelli to a long-term contract before the January transfer window.
Barcelona is “watching” Gabriel Martinelli’s World Cup performance because of Neymar’s uncertain future.
Martinelli staying?
Martinelli’s inclusion in Tite’s final 26-man squad for Qatar was a surprise, despite his stellar play for Arsenal. The 21-year-old has become a key member of Mikel Arteta’s team. He’s seen little country service.
The Gunners want to reward Martinelli’s strong play with a new contract, but talks have so far failed. Other European teams may take advantage of this situation next year.
