Arsenal transfer news: The club is edging closer to make the much-sought-after Brazilian teenager its first summer signing.
Arsenal gained a major boost earlier this week as they aim to secure Champions League qualification for the next season.
The side registered a 3-0 aggregate victory over Serie A club Napoli in the quarterfinal of the Europa League. Arsenal is currently fourth in the Premier League as well, but face a tough task for the top-4 race.
As the Gunners are focussing on ending the season on a high, they’re also making quick moves in the transfer market. According to English media outlet Daily Mail, Arsenal is already closing in on their first summer signing of the 2019/20 season.
Arsenal transfer news: First signing on the way
Arsenal have been monitoring Brazil’s 17-year-old star Gabriel Martinelli ever since the U20 South American Championships in January.
Now, Daily Mail has reported that the club is close to agreeing on a deal for the player.
Arsenal is not the only club which has shown interest in the player. According to the report, 25 clubs have been tracking Martinelli.
However, Arsenal are set to win the race for the signing of the youngster.
Martinelli scored 10 goals in 32 appearances for Ituano last season, and has had trials with Manchester United and FC Barcelona in his early days.
In his first season, Unai Emery oversaw a mini-overhaul at the club, which saw Arsenal parting ways with mainstays like Jack Wilshere and Santi Cazorla. Five new signings were made in the transfer window, and Arsenal further signed Denis Suarez on loan from Barcelona.
If Arsenal secures Champions League qualification for the next season, it is not unreasonable to expect the club breaking the bank to ensure yet another eventful transfer window.
How Twitter reacted..
#AFC| Arsenal have identified Martinelli, who playes for Ituano as their first summer signing.[@draper_rob] pic.twitter.com/q0q55QwatJ
— Latest Arsenal (@LatestAFCNWS) April 21, 2019
Former Arsenal midfielder Edu set for return to the club as technical director. 17 year old Martinelli will be his first signing. #afc https://t.co/CUTGh74Av6
— Aid (@HandofEmery) April 20, 2019
So apparently we’re signing 17 year old Gabriel Martinelli, he can play upfront and on the wing, don’t know alot about him, but I have alot of faith in Emery and Raul to get us top young talent, proof is already in the pudding with the signings of Torreira and Guendouzi.
— Nathan (@MinasNathan99) April 21, 2019
What next?
Arsenal returns to action later tonight as the side takes on Crystal Palace in the league.
