David Ornstein has suggested that Arsenal’s pursuit of top left-wingers like Rodrygo and Anthony Gordon may depend on Gabriel Martinelli’s future at the club.
Arsenal have been linked with a number of wingers this summer, including Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon, and Chelsea’s Noni Madueke.
But whilst Madueke could cover on the right wing and would probably cost a bit less, Rodrygo and Gordon would be big money signings expected to almost exclusively start on the left.
As a result, David Ornstein tells The Athletic FC podcast that whilst it may be possible to sign Madueke and hold onto Gabriel Martinelli as well, it would be much less likely the Gunners could keep the Brazilian and still sign someone like Rodrygo.
“[Arsenal] have always wanted to strengthen on the left-wing, but they’ve got Gabriel Martinelli, a very fine player, there already,” Ornstein said.
“If he was to leave, then you could see them maybe bringing in a top left-sided winger. If he’s not to leave, then I don’t think so.
“We’ve talked and reported on the likes of Rodrygo and Anthony Gordon, I think that’s if a Martinelli leaves. I don’t necessarily think that that’s if he was to stay.”
Martinelli’s future at Arsenal isn’t necessarily guaranteed, with reports that he has interest from Bayern Munich and Saudi Arabian clubs.
But the latest on those rumours was that Martinelli wants to remain in Europe, and that the Gunners aren’t actively looking to sell to raise money.
If Ornstein’s feeling on the situation is correct, it may take an unexpected and significant bid for Martinelli to convince Arsenal to sell and reinvest in someone like Rodrygo.
The Gunners are evidently prepared for that eventuality, laying the groundwork for a Rodrygo bid in recent weeks. It’s just not something that’s really on the cards just yet.