Arsenal have been handed an urgent reminder to extend Gabriel Martinelli's contract at the Emirates Stadium after it emerged Barcelona have been 'scouting' the Brazilian star. The forward has attracted interest with his performances in the Premier League but has hinted about remaining at the club.
Martinelli has started the 2022/23 season in impressive form with five league goals to help lift Mikel Arteta's side to the top of the table at Christmas. Alongside Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, the 21-year-old has formed one of the strongest attacking lines in Europe to warrant himself a spot in Brazil's 26-man World Cup squad.
Unfortunately for the Gunners star, there's an array of talent within A Selecao's attacking options meaning he's been regularly used off the bench. However, with passage already secured to the knockout rounds, Martinelli impressed in the final group game against Cameroon and seems to have attracted interest with his performance in Qatar.
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According to Sport (via The Sun), Spanish giants Barcelona are scouting the forward and are hoping to lure him to the Nou Camp at a cut-price deal. Martinelli's contract in north London expires in 2024 and will be open to sign for a European club on a free transfer in 18 months.
The report suggests Barcelona have labelled him as a 'favourite' and are considering making a move at the end of the season. However, Xavi's men will have to move fast following Martinelli's previous words on his contract situation.
"I want to stay they just need to give me a pen," Martinelli told reporters when asked about his contract in early November. "I am very happy at Arsenal. I said it many times, I love to be here. I love the city, I love everything about Arsenal so I want to stay."
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