Napoli have made an approach for Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, with talks underway over a potential move to the Serie A club. The Brazil international is one of several players Arsenal are open to selling this summer following their Premier League title-winning campaign last season.
Martinelli rejects Galatasaray, Napoli step in
Galatasaray had submitted a £38 million offer for the 25-year-old earlier this week, but Martinelli has informed Arsenal that he does not want to join the Turkish giants and is not pushing for a departure from north London. Despite this, Napoli are ready to test his resolve, with Italian outlet Sportitalia reporting that the Serie A side have already sounded out the winger and discussions are ongoing.
Arsenal have held talks with Galatasaray over multiple potential deals, including a move for teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, who is also a target for the Turkish club. During those discussions, the Gunners also enquired about the availability of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, though no agreement has been reached.
Arteta anticipates departures before window closes
Speaking ahead of Arsenal's Community Shield clash with Manchester City on Sunday, manager Mikel Arteta admitted that some squad members are likely to leave before the summer transfer window closes. He specifically named 19-year-old Nwaneri as a player in a particularly difficult position, given the need for regular first-team football.
“I want him to be at the club. But we have to think about the medium and long term,” Arteta said. “What is best for the player? Ethan needs to play football. If he stays here, we must be able to guarantee him those minutes, otherwise it won’t be beneficial for either side.”
Martinelli's stats and Arsenal's upcoming fixtures
Martinelli made 53 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists. His versatility and pace have made him a valuable asset, but with Arsenal's squad depth, the club is prepared to listen to offers.
Asked whether Arsenal must sell before making further signings, Arteta added: “Well we have certain possibilities that we have to explore. So far with the numbers we have, we are happy, but we have to accept that there are certain players that might have to move.”
Arsenal begin their Premier League campaign next Friday night against newly-promoted Coventry City, following the Community Shield this weekend. The club's transfer activity remains fluid as the window progresses, with Napoli now the latest club to show interest in Martinelli.
