Transfer Centre

Brazil international Gabriel Martinelli shares view on Arsenal transfer activity

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 20 June 2024

Arsenal attacker Gabriel Martinelli gives his opinion on the club's transfer activity as he prepares to feature for Brazil at the Copa America.

Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli has backed the club's activity in the market across recent transfer windows.

Under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have enjoyed a steady build, transforming from European hopefuls to Premier League title challengers.

For two seasons in succession, Arsenal have pushed Manchester City all the way in the race for the top-flight crown, only missing out in 2023-24 on the final-day of the campaign.

As a result, there has been consistent speculation that Arteta and sporting director Edu are looking to significant strengthen the team's options in the final third.

A centre-forward is said to be the priority, a consequence of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah only scoring nine goals between them in the Premier League.

Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli celebrates scoring their first goal with Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz on December 5, 2023 © Reuters

Martinelli supports Arteta, Edu

There have also been suggestions that Martinelli's place in the squad is not necessarily guaranteed with the Brazil international having endured a below-par season in terms of numbers.

Martinelli contributed just six goals and four assists from his 35 appearances in the Premier League, none of which came after March 4.

Nevertheless, regardless of the business that is conducted in the summer, the 23-year-old has placed full faith in Arteta and compatriot Edu.

Speaking to AS, Martinelli said: "The people who play at Arsenal are very good.

"The club has to have the best players to have a chance of being champions. We have an outstanding team, with many players of incredible quality.

"The ones who define the issue of signings are Edu Gaspar and Arteta. It depends on them. We have to work on the field and leave that part of the signings to them."

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reacts on April 9, 2024 © Reuters

Would Arsenal consider selling Martinelli?

Having only cost Arsenal in the region of £6m back in 2019, Martinelli has already proven incredible value for money over the course of the last five years.

A total of 41 goals and 24 assists have come from 174 appearances in all competitions, while he also has 48 direct contributions (32 goals, 16 assists) in the Premier League.

However, 2023-24 represented his worst return in three seasons and Arsenal want to generate funds for other players, even if their preference is through different personnel.

With three years left on his contract, it would take a huge bid to convince Arsenal to sell, yet a strong showing for Brazil in the Copa America may convince some of European football's top clubs to put forward an offer.