Barcelona have reportedly been scouting Gabriel Martinelli's performances at the World Cup, with the Catalan giants huge admirers of the Arsenal attacker.
The 21-year-old has been in strong form for the Gunners during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring five goals and registering two assists in 20 appearances in all competitions.
Martinelli is currently with the Brazil squad at the 2022 World Cup, making three appearances at the competition, featuring off the bench against Serbia and South Korea, in addition to playing the full 90 minutes of the 1-0 loss to Cameroon on December 2.
According to Sport, the Brazilian is a 'favourite' of senior figures at Barcelona, with a number of individuals keen to bring him to Camp Nou.
The report claims that the Catalan outfit have been watching his performances at the World Cup, with the club considering a move for him next year.
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Barcelona will allegedly monitor Martinelli's form for the remainder of the tournament, with the forward hoping to be involved in Brazil's World Cup quarter-final against Croatia on December 9.
The attacker only has little over 18 months left to run on his contract at Arsenal, although the club do have the option of activating an additional 12 months until June 2025.
Martinelli recently expressed a desire to sign a new deal at the Emirates Stadium, but a breakthrough in discussions has not yet arrived despite the ongoing speculation.
"I am very happy at Arsenal. I've said it many times. This is my club. I love to be here, I love the city, I love the club," Martinelli recently told reporters.
"I love everything about Arsenal so I want to stay. I just need to get a pen. I want to score, score in the next game and help my team do well.
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"When I knew Arsenal wanted to buy me it was one of the happiest days of my life. Every player who has the opportunity to play for Arsenal will try to play his best."
Martinelli made the move to the Gunners from Ituano in July 2019, and he has represented the club on 104 occasions in all competitions, contributing 23 goals and 15 assists in the process.
Barcelona are expected to allow Memphis Depay to leave Camp Nou next year, either in January or on a free transfer next summer.
There has also been speculation surrounding Ferran Torres's future, so Xavi's side could be in the market for a new attacker during next summer's transfer window.
Matt Law
