Mikel Arteta with Arsenal players
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal’s plans to reinforce their attacking options this summer may hinge on the future of Gabriel Martinelli, with the Brazilian winger attracting interest from clubs abroad.
The Gunners have been active in the transfer market ahead of the 2025/26 season, with goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga arriving from Chelsea to provide competition for David Raya. In midfield, Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi and Brentford captain Christian Nørgaard are set to join, the latter replacing Thomas Partey, who has departed as a free agent.
A new striker remains a top priority, with Arsenal exploring moves for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres. The club is also in advanced talks to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze.
READ MORE: Mikel Arteta sets deadline for Andrea Berta to complete striker signing
Arsenal are keen to add depth to their wide positions as well, especially with a player who can operate on the left wing and provide cover for Bukayo Saka on the right. However, any such signing could depend on whether Martinelli stays at the Emirates.
Arsenal - Gabriel Martinelli
Gabriel Martinelli (Image credit: Getty Images)
The 24-year-old Brazil international, who scored 10 goals and registered six assists last season, remains Mikel Arteta’s first-choice left winger when fit. However, recent reports have linked him with a move to Saudi Arabia, with Al Nassr among the clubs interested.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Arsenal are unlikely to push forward with deals for wide players like Rodrygo, Anthony Gordon, or Noni Madueke unless Martinelli departs.
“They’ve always wanted to strengthen on the left wing, but they’ve got Gabriel Martinelli, a very fine player, there already,” Ornstein said on The Athletic FC Podcast. “If he were to leave, then you can see them bringing in a top left-sided winger. If he’s not to leave, then I don’t think so.”
Arsenal were previously in contact with Rodrygo’s representatives in May, with Real Madrid valuing the Brazilian winger at around €80 million (£67 million). However, sources in Spain now claim the Gunners have cooled their interest, and any potential move is unlikely to materialise until later in the window, if at all.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal complete all paperwork for another summer signing