Arsenal have decided not to sell winger Gabriel Martinelli this summer, despite reported interest in him.
Martinelli’s future was plunged into uncertainty after Arsenal have expressed interest in signing several wingers such as Rodrygo, Eberechi Eze, and Noni Madueke from Chelsea. The latter is still expected to join Arsenal, but he will be more of a backup to Bukayo Saka, who suffered a hamstring injury last year.
Reports emerged saying that Martinelli was subject to transfer interest from Bundesliga side Bayern Munich, which intensified the rumours that the Brazilian would leave Arsenal after a season where he scored eight goals in the Premier League.
However, it now seems that the 24-year-old will stay at the Emirates despite all the reports suggesting otherwise. According to Football Insider, manager Mikel Arteta sees Martinelli as a key part of his attack, despite the Gunners’ links to winger transfer targets.
In short, no. Just because the Gunners are set to keep Martinelli, it won’t necessarily prevent them from going after Rodrygo from Real Madrid as he remains a top target for Arsenal. Furthermore, reports have said Arsenal remain in talks for Crystal Palace’s Eze.
If the Gunners were to bring in the winger, Martinelli’s role would likely reduce to a backup winger role, however, if Arsenal do indeed sign Noni Madueke from Chelsea, that (alongside Martinelli staying), would plunge any move for Rodrygo into doubt.
However, there has been reported interest from Chelsea in winger Ethan Nwaneri, and if the Gunners were to sell the 17-year-old, that could free up both some squad space and funds to sign Madueke and one of Eze or Rodrygo.
But for now, the only thing that has been confirmed is that Martinelli is set to stay at the Emirates and hopefully help the Gunners to a league title next year.
