Arsenal fans might be bracing themselves – according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have their sights set on star winger Gabriel Martinelli.

The La Liga giants reportedly see the 22-year-old as a major target to strengthen their attack and could be willing to make a substantial €100 million offer.

Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli (L) celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium in London on February 4, 2024. (Photo by IAN KINGTON/IKIMAGES/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli (L) celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium in London on February 4, 2024. (Photo by IAN KINGTON/IKIMAGES/AFP via Getty Images)

Martinelli’s impact at Arsenal

Since joining in 2019, Martinelli has overcome injuries to secure his place as a vital part of Mikel Arteta‘s team.

His dynamic performances this season highlight why he’s drawing attention from a club like Barcelona. Despite his importance to Arsenal, reports note that his current contract does not include a release clause, something that is standard in Spain but not so much in England.

Martinelli’s current Arsenal deal runs until 2027.

Arsenal’s stance uncertain

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 17: Mikel Arteta speaks to Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on December 17, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 17: Mikel Arteta speaks to Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on December 17, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

It remains unclear whether Arsenal would even consider parting ways with the Brazilian prodigy but it seems highly unlikely.

While Barcelona’s financial ability to make such a move depends on other factors, even the suggestion of their interest casts a shadow of uncertainty over Martinelli’s future at the Emirates as we know how unsettling Barcelona’s attention can be.

Mundo Deportivo does not reveal Martinelli’s own willingness to leave Arsenal, further fuelling speculation, but it is worth noting that Martinelli has said a number of times that he would love to stay with Arsenal for life. It would have taken MD 30 seconds on Google to find that out.