According to Fichajes, Gabriel Martinelli has emerged as a big target for Barcelona, with the Spanish giants ready to consider an approach should Raphinha depart. The latter is a key part of Hansi Flick’s side, with the Arsenal star now seen as a viable option to replace his compatriot.
Barcelona could make a few changes to their squad ahead of next summer, with a sale of one of their top players likely to materialise. Finances being one of the primary reasons for considering a big departure, the Catalans could think about offloading top performer Raphinha should big offers come their way.
Raphinha has long attracted massive interest from the Premier League, and given his current status at Barcelona, he could fetch a top fee in return. The Brazilian remains happy and living his dream playing for the Catalans, as the club may have to push through the exit door if the player were given a choice.
In either situation, Barcelona are prepared to keep their options open and are already looking into the market for potential replacements. Manchester City’s Savinho was considered earlier, and now, they have added Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli to the equation.
The Arsenal forward could reportedly be signed for around €45 million, as per the story, although in truth, the Gunners will demand significantly more for the Brazilian. Barcelona values Martinelli’s work on the wings and the pace he brings, as they view his profile as ideal enough to replace Raphinha.
Some reports back in the summer stated Arsenal were rumoured to be ready to sell Martinelli if they received a big enough offer, and there were some links to Saudi Arabia. However, Mikel Arteta internally values the player rather highly, with the club holding a one-year option on his current deal that originally expires in 2027.
The €45 million-rated Arsenal forward remains happy in north London, although a new left-wing arrival could potentially make him think hard about his future. There are links to the likes of Julian Alvarez and Kenan Yildiz as potential options, as one such arrival could see the Brazilian consider his future at the Emirates. However, Arteta’s push could let the club keep him for the time being, and should he perform well, a new contract is not out of the question.
