Arsenal’s decision to loan Marquinhos to Brazilian club Fluminense is proving to be both a sporting and financial success.
The young winger is thriving in his new environment, scoring crucial goals in the Copa Libertadores. Even better for Arsenal, a massive 50% sell-on clause in his contract could mean a hefty payday if Fluminense decides to make his stay permanent.
Arsenal loanee Marquinhos is making the most of his time with Brazilian club Fluminense. His recent strong performances, including two goals and an assist in the Copa Libertadores, have him feeling like he’s “living a magical moment.”
Beyond his impressive form, this loan spell could be a savvy move for Arsenal. The Gunners have secured a massive 50% sell-on clause in Marquinhos’ deal with Fluminense. This means if the Brazilian club opts to purchase him permanently, Arsenal would receive half of any future transfer proceeds.
Happy and growing in Brazil
Speaking to the media, Marquinhos expressed his delight with his current form, highlighting his recent goal at the historic Maracanã as a dream come true. The young winger is clearly thriving under the guidance of Fluminense manager Fernando Diniz.
“I’m living a magical moment, a very special week,” Marquinhos said. “It’s already fitted in with the Alianza game, in the Libertadores opener. Sunday was my birthday. And on Tuesday, I realised my dream of scoring a goal in the Maracanã alongside the tricolour fans. It was marvellous.”
Arteta vs. Diniz: A player’s perspective
When asked about similarities between Diniz and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, Marquinhos acknowledged a shared emphasis on possession and attacking play. However, he highlighted Diniz’s unique style, saying, “With Arteta there’s a bit of liking the ball, proposing the game all the time. But Professor Fernando is very different. It’s difficult to say. I don’t think anyone in the world does it. Only him here at Fluminense. There’s a bit of a similarity with Arteta in terms of wanting to play, being offensive. But the way we play, everything we do here is his alone.”
Marquinhos is on loan to Fluminense until December 2024, and it remains unclear if he’ll break into Arsenal’s first-team plans but it seems unlikely at this point.
Fluminense has a purchase option, and his current success could entice them to keep him long-term. However, if he continues to impress in the Copa Libertadores, Arsenal might be equally keen to bring him back to the Emirates.
The 21-year-old is currently valued at around €7m, double what Arsenal paid Sao Paulo for his signature in 2021, but some way below the high of €12m he reached last summer after his loan spell with Norwich.