Spanish giants Barcelona have been 'following' Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli's progress at the World Cup - with the Brazilian forward's long-term future still unclear.
Despite his impressive performances for Arsenal this term, Martinelli was a surprise inclusion in Tite's 26-man squad for the tournament in Qatar. The 21-year-old has established himself as one of Mikel Arteta's most influential players over the past 12 months, but has only earned a handful of caps for the national team.
The Gunners are eager to reward Martinelli for his impressive form with a new deal but as of yet have failed to reach an agreement with the exciting forward. And it has emerged that other clubs around Europe could be plotting to take advantage of that in the new year.
A new report from Spaniard outlet Sport claims that Barcelona have been keeping tabs on Martinelli's progress this season and are continuing to monitor him throughout the World Cup.
Xavi's side are planning to revamp their attacking options next summer and are running the rule over players who have international experience and the scope to grow and evolve alongside the club in the coming years.
Martinelli fits the bill and his deal has just 18 months left to run, but he and Arsenal have been outspoken over their desire to come to terms on a fresh, long-term agreement. Talks over a four-year deal between Martinelli and the Gunners have yet to come to fruition and, crucially, Sport claims that Martinelli is 'aware' of Barcelona's interest.
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It remains to be seen whether or not Martinelli's intentions will be swayed by Barcelona's interest. The forward was snapped up by the Londoners for just £6million back in 2019 and he implied as recently as last month that he would happily commit his future to the club for longer - quipping that all he needed was a pen to get the deal wrapped up.
“I’m very happy at Arsenal,” he told reporters before the Gunners' Europa League clash with FC Zurich at the start of November. “I’ve said it many times. This is my club. I love to be here. I love the city, I love the club, I love everything about Arsenal. So I want to stay, I’m very happy.”
When he was asked if a pen was all he needed to get the contract signed, he playfully responded: "Yeah, I just need a pen!"
Talks over a new deal are likely to continue after the conclusion of the World Cup, with Arsenal keen to tie down their impressive youngsters, including Martinelli and England hero Bukayo Saka, sooner rather than later.
