Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli is being targeted by Barcelona as a potential replacement for Raphinha this summer, according to Fichajes.
The Gunners star has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates this season on the left-wing, with Leandro Trossard and Eberechi Eze starting regularly on that flank, while Noni Madueke has also been used down that side on occasion too.
Martinelli has started just seven games in the Premier League this season, but the Brazilian's skillset has caught the attention of one of Europe's giants, and they could now make a move to sign him in the summer to replace one of his fellow countrymen.
Barcelona Eyeing Martinelli Move
Gabriel Martinelli
Gabriel Martinelli
Martinelli, who is considered to be one of the fastest players in the Premier League, has scored ten goals in all competitions this season, including six in the Champions League, but is due to be out of contract at the Emirates Stadium next summer as things stand.
The north London outfit have the option to extend that by a further 12 months, but it has been reported that the club could be open to listening to offers for his services, and Barcelona are showing a strong interest in the 24-year-old.
The Catalan side are braced for mega-money offers from Saudi Arabia for Raphinha in the summer, and while they don't want to lose him, they could receive an irresistible bid which means they will need to replace him.
Hansi Flick has identified Martinelli as an ideal option for his squad to replace Raphinha should he move on, with his pace and finishing ability in front of goal seen as perfect attributes to help the team.
Arsenal are expected to demand at least £40m from interested parties, and Martinelli would be open to a move to Spain. However, as it stands the interest is still in an early stage, although talks could intensify in the coming weeks and months.
Arsenal Ready to Cash In on Martinelli
martinelli arsenal
From the way Arsenal have built their squad recently, and with the young players like Max Dowman and Ethan Nwaneri coming through, it's clear that Martinelli isn't untouchable in north London.
An offer from a club like Barcelona could see a move take place, and while it may not be ideal, it wouldn't be the end of the world if the money is reinvested properly throughout the squad to make them stronger.
While Martinelli has his strengths, he also has some glaring flaws that mean he is unlikely to ever be the main man at the Emirates, and a big-money exit may be the solution for everyone.
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