Arsenal
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Barcelona are reportedly considering a surprise move for Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to Spanish outletSport.
The 23-year-old Brazilian endured an inconsistent 2024–25 season but remains a key figure at the Emirates, with 51 goals and 29 assists in 225 appearances. Despite his dip in form, Martinelli continues to enjoy strong support from Arsenal fans and is viewed as an important part of Mikel Arteta’s squad.
However, after a third consecutive second-place finish in the Premier League and another trophyless campaign, the Gunners could be vulnerable to offers for some of their top stars. Sport reports that La Liga champions Barcelona are exploring alternatives to their top attacking targets — Liverpool’s Luis Díaz and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford — both of whom have proven difficult to land.
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Barcelona are reportedly unwilling to meet United’s €40 million valuation for Rashford, preferring a loan deal instead. But with United pushing for a permanent sale, the Catalan club may be forced to pivot. Martinelli is among the names being considered as a potential backup option, alongside Bayern Munich’s Kingsley Coman.
Arsenal - Gabriel Martinelli
Barcelona could be interested in Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli this summer (Image credit: Getty Images)
Martinelli is under contract at Arsenal until 2027, with the club holding an option for an additional year, making any potential deal complex. Despite no reports of a contract renewal, Martinelli remains one of Arsenal’s most valued assets and could attract offers close to £100 million, following recent claims that the club has placed a valuation of over £50 million on the Brazilian. Meanwhile, clubs in the Saudi Pro League are also reportedly monitoring his situation, though there is no indication of any concrete offers at this time.
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Amid the uncertainty surrounding Martinelli’s future, Arsenal may have a chance to revive their interest in AC Milan winger Rafael Leão. French outletFootmercato claims that new Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has already contacted the Portuguese international to express the club’s interest.
Leão, 25, scored 12 goals and provided 13 assists in a campaign that ultimately saw Milan fail to qualify for European competition. With the club now entering a period of transition under returning manager Max Allegri, Leão is expected to be a central figure in the Italian’s rebuild. Nevertheless, Arsenal are keeping a close eye on developments.
Although Leão is not currently a priority target, Arsenal could intensify their pursuit if Martinelli departs this summer. The Gunners may offer Leão a key role in their squad, along with the opportunity to play in the Champions League — a prospect Milan cannot currently match.
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