Future of Gabriel Martinelli at Arsenal looks shaky as AC Milan reportedly lining up a January swoop for the winger.
A star losing his shine
Gabriel Martinelli was not long ago viewed as one of Arsenal’s most exciting players. He was a livewire attacking player who moved into PL defenses and looked poised to take the Gunners forward. The 2022/23 season showed that, with 15 league goals and the presence of a blossoming superstar. But things have cooled quickly.
In the past two campaigns, his output has dipped. He’s found himself drifting out of games, losing the spark that once made him a guaranteed starter. Mikel Arteta has even chosen to bench him in big moments. Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta is now weighing Martinelli’s value both on the pitch and in the books.
AC Milan waiting in the wings for Martinelli
This is where AC Milan enter the scene. The Italian giants are bracing for a future without Rafael Leao, and Martinelli has been flagged as a natural replacement. Arsenal had slapped a £60m tag on him in the summer. But, interest cooled with most clubs rating him closer to £40m.
The doors could easily be reopened in January. That is especially if Arsenal push ahead with an ambitious move for Real Madrid’s Rodrygo. This is a transfer that would demand serious financial reshuffling. Selling Martinelli could be the trigger to unlock that deal.
With his contract running until 2027, Arsenal still hold the cards. But, Milan’s growing interest means the coming window could see a opening bid from them. For Martinelli, it’s a crossroads. He can either fight to reclaim his spot or take the chance of a fresh start in Serie A.
Author’s Opinion:
Martinelli still has the tools to thrive, but his confidence has dipped badly. If Arsenal truly plan to go after Rodrygo, then a Milan move might suit everyone. Although, the Gunners would risk losing a player who still has plenty left in the tank.
