Report: Barcelona told Gabriel Martinelli will sign new Arsenal contract

By Jordan Harris

Barcelona had asked about signing Gabriel Martinelli after following the forward during the World Cup, but Sport reports that the Catalan giants have been informed that he plans to stay at Arsenal and sign a new contract.

Martinelli appears to have taken his game to another level this season. He has been outstanding for Mikel Arteta’s side, helping the Gunners to the top of the Premier League table.

But there has been a little speculation over his future. His current contract is set to expire in 2024 – though Arsenal apparently have a two-year option on those terms.

Barcelona told Martinelli is staying at Arsenal

Barcelona looked to throw a spanner in the works. In fact, Sport reports that they have been monitoring the 21-year-old for the last few months. And it was noted that Xavi’s side have a good relationship with Martinelli’s agents.

They went as far as asking about a move. However, they have now been informed that Martinelli wants to stay at Arsenal and will sign a new deal at the Emirates.

Arsenal fans may not feel at all surprised by the news. Ultimately, they were already in a strong position, with the Gunners already able to tie Martinelli down until 2026.

And they would have been optimistic that Martinelli would want to stay with Arsenal. He is absolutely thriving in a team which currently tops the Premier League table.

But it is obviously still very positive news for Arsenal. He is an incredibly ‘special‘ talent who has shone since making the move to North London. And he is only going to improve further.

Links with Barca are likely to come again at some stage, you would imagine. But Arsenal look set to stave off interest for the foreseeable future.