Mikel Arteta's dynamic Arsenal team currently top the Premier League by seven points but face a confident Manchester United side managed by Michael Carrick this weekend
Ben Crawford GAU Writer
18:00, 23 Jan 2026
Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, applauds the fans after the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Arsenal
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Mikel Arteta and Arsenal host Manchester United in the Premier League this weekend(Image: Getty)
Arsenal hold a commanding seven-point advantage at the Premier League summit. And Mikel Arteta's men will be determined to maintain their impressive momentum when Manchester United visit the Emirates on Sunday.
The Gunners are in exceptional form both domestically and on the continent, having dispatched Inter Milan with ease during the week. Their perfect record of seven victories from seven Champions League fixtures have all but secured top spot in the group phase.
Michael Carrick's United present the next test this weekend, arriving in north London buoyed by a 2-0 derby triumph over title contenders Manchester City. Among those hoping to shine is Gabriel Martinelli.
However, the Brazilian has this week been surprisingly linked with a potential departure from Arsenal, as football.london rounds up the latest transfer speculation from the Emirates.
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Gabriel Martinelli bombshell
Martinelli has endured a turbulent campaign with the Gunners, facing public scrutiny for his clash with Liverpool defender Conor Bradley during the goalless stalemate between the sides earlier this month.
He responded emphatically with a treble in the FA Cup against Portsmouth, but fresh speculation suggests Saudi Pro League clubs are preparing to make their move for the 24-year-old.
Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal waves as he warms up prior to the Carabao Cup Quarter Final match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at Emirates Stadium
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Martinelli has been linked with a transfer away from Arsenal(Image: Getty)
According to talkSPORT, the Saudi Pro League are targeting multiple Premier League stars this summer, including Mohamed Salah, Bruno Fernandes and soon-to-be free agent Casemiro. However, the report also suggests that Martinelli is being monitored.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr are thought to be interested in Martinelli, who could reportedly reassess his Arsenal future following this summer's World Cup.
Gabriel Jesus drops transfer hint
Gabriel Jesus stole the headlines in midweek as Arsenal visited the San Siro. The forward netted twice in the opening period before Viktor Gyokeres sealed his side's crucial third goal.
Yet this week, the Brazilian has switched representatives. He has appointed Italian agent Giovanni Branchini, with the 28-year-old's existing contract in north London running until 2027.
Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Arsenal FC
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Jesus scored two against Inter Milan(Image: Getty)
A change of agent could indicate that Jesus is exploring his options and following the Inter clash, he provided another clue about where he might wish to continue his career.
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When questioned post-match about the significance of his brace, Jesus told CBS Sports: "As a kid I always watched Serie A. I was dreaming to play [Inter]... you score and win against one of the best teams in Europe. It's an amazing feeling."
According to reports, Italy could be Jesus' next destination should he depart Arsenal in the coming months, with both Juventus and AC Milan monitoring his situation, per Calciomercato.
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It's a great time to be an Arsenal fan, with the Gunners flying high under Arteta as they look to win silverware this season.
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