Romano shares update on Martinelli contract talks at Arsenal

Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Arsenal will soon step up their efforts to tie Gabriel Martinelli down to a new contract.

The transfer insider was speaking about the Gunners star on his YouTube channel.

Martinelli has become one of the stars of Mikel Arteta’s high-flying team over the past year.

The 21-year-old joined Arsenal back in 2019 from Brazilian outfit Ituano for a mere £6million.

He enjoyed a superb maiden season at the Emirates before then falling out of contention somewhat.

But now, Martinelli has shown Arteta he has what it takes, and he’s been sensational for the Gunners.

‘Just need to get a pen’

The Brazilian’s contract runs until 2024, though Arsenal have an option to extend it to 2026.

However, the Gunners seem keen on rewarding Martinelli with a bumper new contract.

The Arsenal forward recently expressed his desire to commit his future to the club.

Speaking to the media ahead of the Europa League clash with FC Zurich, he said: “I’m very happy at Arsenal.

“I said it many times, this is my club, I love to be here, I love the city, I love the club, I love everything about Arsenal.

“I want to stay, I’m very happy – I just need to get a pen!”

Romano has now reported that in ‘the next days and weeks’, Arsenal will push to get the deal sorted.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said: “With Gabriel Martinelli, they are pushing and pushing again in the next days and weeks.

“They are really optimistic, also Martinelli [is too].

“The contract of Martinelli is until 2024. I’m told there is an option to extend the contract for a further season.

“So Arsenal feel relaxed on this Martinelli story, but they want to give him an improved contract.

“So they are discussing also with Martinelli, with his agents.

“We have a lot of stories on other clubs, but Martinelli is happy with Arsenal.

“And of course, winning games is really important because all these players are tempted by staying [in the] long term with the Arsenal project.”

It’s refreshing to hear a player talk candidly about how much he wants to stay and pen a new contract.

All too often, players will give coy statements about their future where they don’t give too much away.

But Martinelli has made it clear he wants to stay at Arsenal, and the feeling is certainly mutual.

Surely it won’t be long now before the Gunners put out that all-important announcement.