Arsenal confirm new long-term Gabriel Martinelli contract

Arsenal have confirmed that Gabriel Martinelli has penned a new long-term contract.

When the Gunners signed the then-Ituano youngster for £6m in 2019, the winger was regarded as an unknown to European football fans.

However, Martinelli has since developed into a star man at the Emirates Stadium, establishing himself as a regular in Mikel Arteta's starting lineup.

During the current campaign, the 21-year-old has been an ever-present in the Premier League, contributing seven goals and two assists from his 19 starts.

Arsenal have never been in danger of seeing Martinelli move to another club, however, with his existing terms lasting until 2024 and there being a two-year option on top of that.

Gabi signs on ❤️ pic.twitter.com/mgMIzdt68O

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 3, 2023

Nevertheless, at a time when Arsenal when sit at the top of the domestic standings, there has been an urgency to reward players who have helped guide the North London outfit to the summit.

Arsenal have now officially confirmed that successful negotiations have taken place with the Brazil international, who extends his stay at the Emirates Stadium in the long term.

Commenting on the development, Arteta told the club's official website: "We're delighted Gabi has signed a new long-term contract. Our supporters see his quality and energy every single time he puts on the shirt and he's the same every day in training, with his hard work and positive values.

"Gabi is still very young, so we know there's still much more to come from him and it's great that we'll be on this journey together. We're now excited to continue to develop his huge talent and look forward to seeing him perform with Arsenal in the years to come."

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Sporting director Edu added: "It's great that Gabi has signed a new contract with us. The foundations of our squad continue to be built on young talent, so it's great that Gabi has signed a new contract.

"Gabi is still just 21, and a player with big ability and personality. He is an important part of our future and we're delighted that we have agreed a new contract."

While the length of contract has not been officially disclosed by Arsenal, it has been widely reported that the terms run until 2027.

Martinelli, who has won six caps for his country, has contributed 25 goals and 16 assists from his 111 appearances for Arsenal.