Gabriel Martinelli transfer could unlock Arsenal’s wing hunt

Gabriel Martinelli transfer remains the pivotal domino in Arsenal’s summer planning as sporting director Edu assesses how to sharpen Mikel Arteta’s frontline before the 2024-25 campaign kicks off.

How Gabriel Martinelli transfer shapes plans

Arsenal’s recruitment team has identified the left flank as an area for fresh impetus. If Martinelli, who has admirers across Europe, is sold to generate a sizeable fee, the Gunners will immediately switch their focus to two marquee alternatives: Real Madrid star Rodrygo and Newcastle United live-wire Anthony Gordon. Both fit Arteta’s pressing blueprint and would arrive ready-made for Champions League football.

Rodrygo: a Galáctico within reach?

Madrid’s need to balance the books after Kylian Mbappé’s anticipated arrival means an £85 million bid could tempt Florentino Pérez to cash in. Rodrygo’s versatility—he can operate off either wing and as a false nine—makes him an alluring option for Arsenal’s fluid front three.

Gordon’s Premier League appeal

Should negotiations with Madrid stall, Arsenal will test Newcastle’s resolve with an offer in the £70 million bracket for Gordon. The England international’s blistering pace and improving end product have placed him high on Arteta’s shortlist, and his home-grown status is an additional bonus for UEFA squad quotas.

Tactical ripples

Selling Martinelli would free Gabriel Jesus to play wider or deeper, while Bukayo Saka could enjoy more rotation. Conversely, retaining the Brazilian would likely end Arsenal’s pursuit of both Rodrygo and Gordon, redirecting funds toward a defensive midfielder instead.

Opinion: Cashing in on Martinelli feels risky, but Arsenal may never get a better chance to trade up; landing Rodrygo or Gordon could turn a good attack into a title-winning one.