Recently there was growing talk that Arsenal‘s resident Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli could leave the club this summer. If he goes, the North London side may need a new player on the left wing. They are now looking at a young star from RB Leipzig to fill that role. Mikel Arteta is looking for a long-term replacement.
The search for a Gabriel Martinelli successor
Gabriel Martinelli remains a significant figure in the squad, but he has had a smaller role this season. The Brazilian has started only seven Premier League matches so far. Leandro Trossard has often been picked ahead of him in the starting lineup. Despite scoring in a recent victory against Wigan Athletic in FA Cup, questions about his future remain. Some reports claim he could join Barcelona in the summer of 2026. Manager Hansi Flick is said to admire him and may push the club to make a strong offer.
As per reports, Arsenal are now looking at Yan Diomande as a high-profile nominee to take his place. RB Leipzig have reportedly placed a €100 million price tag on the 19-year-old Ivorian winger. The high fee shows how highly he is rated across Europe.
Meanwhile, other top clubs are also watching him closely. Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham are all said to be interested in the winger. Diomande has previously spent time on trial with Rangers and Crystal Palace. He also turned down an offer from Chelsea in 2024. Instead, he joined Spanish football club Leganes to get more regular playing time.
The young forward has stayed professional regarding the transfer rumors. When asked about his future, he stated: ”There are always a lot of people involved in transfers: clubs, agents, family, players. So I don’t make these decisions alone. One thing is certain: I would never have a problem with my club!” – Said Yan Diomande.
🚨🚨| BREAKING: Hansi Flick really likes Gabriel Martinelli and Barcelona have been keeping an eye on him for this summer. His signing would cost around €45M.
Arsenal will play Wolves in the Premier League tonight.
[@TEAMtalk] 🇧🇷🔵🔴 pic.twitter.com/k91ekKTvex
— Managing Barça (@ManagingBarca) February 18, 2026
How Yan Diomande can be the perfect replacement under Mikel Arteta
Yan Diomande has enjoyed a rapid rise over the past year. Just a year ago, he was playing in Spain’s fifth tier. In 2025, he joined RB Leipzig for €20 million and quickly made his mark. This season, the winger has scored nine goals and added six assists in 24 games across all competitions. He can play on either wing, which suits Mikel Arteta’s flexible system.
When comparing the two players, Diomande stands out in several key areas. He averages 3.5 successful dribbles per match. Only Lamine Yamal has a higher number across Europe’s top five leagues. Furthermore, he also has a strong presence in physical battles, having won 262 duels, which is the highest number recorded in the Bundesliga this season.
While Gabriel Martinelli is known for his explosive speed and direct running, Diomande offers a steadier threat when it comes to beating defenders and creating chances. The Ivorian has completed 74 dribbles in 21 matches. In comparison, Martinelli has managed 15 in 20 games. This abundant output could give the Gunners the creative edge they need to break down tight defenses.
🚨 EXCLUSIVE
Yan Diomande reveals he REJECTED Chelsea in 2024 to find his own path! 🚫🔵
The 19-year-old RB Leipzig star prioritized game time over money.
Now, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Bayern are chasing the €100m-rated winger. 💎⚽️
“Patience is crucial,” he says pic.twitter.com/OcN137plFX
— Elochukwu (@elosim_soy) February 16, 2026
Arsenal’s transfer strategy going into this summer
The search for a new winger shows how ambitious the plans are at the Emirates. While Yan Diomande is a top target, Arsenal are looking at other options too. Reports say that Antonio Nusa is also being considered. His price is lower, at around €60 million. The club are also watching Dutch midfielder Kees Smit as they aim to strengthen their central options. If Gabriel Martinelli leaves, it would mark a big change for the team. It would signal a new phase under Mikel Arteta, who is building a squad ready to compete and succeed at the highest level for years to come.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
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