Barcelona are reportedly already in talks with an intermediary over a possible transfer for Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli.
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The Brazil international will not necessarily be a regular starter for the Gunners this season and it appears he could be open to leaving the Emirates Stadium.
This is according to a report from Spanish media outlet Fichajes, who say there have been early contacts to bring Martinelli, who is valued at 45 million euros, to Barça and give him a key role.
However, this could be a problem for Manchester United as Marcus Rashford is on loan at Barcelona this season.
Gabriel Martinelli’s move to Barcelona and what it means for Marcus Rashford
Martinelli can play in a variety of positions, but is arguably best suited to play as a left-sided forward like Rashford.
Rashford has performed well for Hansi Flick’s side so far during his loan spell from Man United, but it is unlikely that he and Martinelli would fit in the same team.
United will likely want to sell Rashford permanently after this loan period ends, but that will become even more difficult if Barcelona decide to sign Martinelli instead.
Arsenal could release Gabriel Martinelli over winger deal
Martinelli leaving Arsenal would perhaps make sense following reports from Fabrizio Romano that the north London giants are looking to sign a new winger this summer.
Romano recently said on YouTube that wingers are Arsenal’s key targets this summer, along with midfielders and right-backs.
Although Romano did not name specific players, it would be natural for AFC to look for reinforcements such as Martinelli and the aging Leandro Trossard on the left.
On the other flank, Arsenal already have a very capable reserve in star players Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke, with youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Max Dauman also able to play there.
One name to keep an eye on might be AC Milan star Rafael Leao. Football Transfers recently reported that the Portugal international is a target of Arsenal.
