Roma and Juventus are among the clubs interested in signing Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli this summer, according to CBS Sports journalist James Benge.
The Gunners recently replaced Leandro Trossard with Christos Tzolis on the left wing, but are still in the transfer market for a marquee solution for the attacking role.
Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior is the prime target for Arsenal, but a transfer would largely depend on him snubbing a contract extension beyond June next year.
Martinelli played second fiddle to Trossard for a starting league role, and he is a likely candidate to depart if Arsenal sign Vinicius or another marquee left winger soon.
Benge reveals that Roma and Juventus particularly hold an interest in the 25-year-old, but the former may not rush what would be a significant move in his career.
Martinelli poised to leave if marquee left winger arrives
The Brazilian contributed 11 goals and seven assists for the Gunners last term. He was particularly impressive in the Champions League with eight goal involvements.
Martinelli did not have much of an impact in the Premier League, but his dramatic late equaliser against Manchester City in September remains an unforgettable moment in Arsenal’s title success.
The Ituano graduate is presently contracted to Arsenal until June next year with an option for another 12 months. Hence, the club are in a reasonably good position to negotiate his transfer.
Calciomercato previously claimed that the Gunners have informed intermediaries of an asking price between £39m and £43m for the attacker, which is a pretty decent transfer figure.
Roma made the highest bid of £40m plus add-ons for Crysencio Summerville this month. The Dutchman made only 12 goal contributions for West Ham United before his move to Al-Hilal.
Based on that, Arsenal should hold firm on their valuation for Martinelli. The forward is presently with the Gunners squad in pre-season training. His departure could materialise if the club receive the green light to land Vinicius or another marquee left winger in the coming days.
Stats from Transfermarkt