Italy are reportedly investigating the possibility of calling Gabriell Matinelli up to their squad after learning the Brazilian has an Italian passport.

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 24: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal celebrates scoring the fifth goal during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Arsenal and Nottingham Forest at Emirates Stadium on September 24, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 24: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal celebrates scoring the fifth goal during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Arsenal and Nottingham Forest at Emirates Stadium on September 24, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Gabriel Martinelli has impressed immensely in his appearances for Arsenal this season and, although he would seem ideally placed to play for Brazil, the Italians are considering a move.

“As for Martinelli, it’s not so easy to apply to play for Italy. We need to wait for players with two passports,” was all the Italy manager Roberto Mancini would say when asked about the situation ahead of their games against Greece and Lichtenstein. Italy, however, are investigating the matter.

Martinelli, despite his talent, has never represented Brazil at any level which seems almost criminal until you remember that we bought him from the fourth tier of Brazilian football and it then becomes a little more understandable.

Latest Arsenal injury updates and news