After winning the Premier League title for the first time in a generation last term, Arsenal have made the perfect start to their efforts to retain their crown in 2026/27.
Mikel Arteta’s side claimed the Community Shield after beating Manchester City, before easing past newly-promoted Coventry City on the opening night of the league campaign.
Six goals scored and zero conceded to start the new campaign is everything the manager will have asked for – but it’s crucial the Gunners maintain such an impressive start.
However, one player looks set to depart the Emirates before the end of the window, which could bring his impressive period at the club to an abrupt end.
Why it’s the right time for Arsenal to sell Martinelli
Back in the summer of 2019, Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli arrived at Arsenal as an unknown quantity – but it’s safe to say he’s exceeded all expectations during his seven years at the club.
The 25-year-old has amassed over 270 appearances for the Gunners, netting 62 times and often popping up on the biggest occasions for Arteta’s side.
However, it appears as though the club have outgrown the attacker, which has seen the forward struggle to emulate his former success over recent times.
Martinelli only netted once in his 30 league appearances last term, and often had to play second fiddle to Leandro Trossard during the title-winning campaign.
|
PL goals scored by Arsenal forwards (2025/26) |
|
|---|---|
|
Player |
Tally |
|
Viktor Gyokeres |
14 |
|
Bukayo Saka |
7 |
|
Leandro Trossard |
6 |
|
Gabriel Jesus |
3 |
|
Noni Madueke |
3 |
|
Kai Havertz |
2 |
|
Gabriel Martinelli |
1 |
|
Max Dowman |
1 |
The aforementioned talent has already departed, but his former teammate could follow in his footsteps after he agreed personal terms with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal.
A deal could well transpire before the end of the summer window, with the club needing to allow the player to depart – as it’s clear he’s reached his full potential in North London.
Any funds from the deal will allow Arteta to reinvest into the senior squad, which could only aid the club in their efforts to become back-to-back title winners.
How Arsenal can secure an elite-level Martinelli this summer
Despite being less than a week remaining in the summer window, Arsenal are still on the hunt for added attacking reinforcements to bolster Arteta’s ranks.
Bradley Barcola has been on the club’s transfer radar over recent months, but other targets will need to be pursued after Liverpool agreed a deal with PSG for the French international.
Other names have constantly appeared on their shortlist, with Atlético Madrid attacker Julian Alvarez undoubtedly falling into the aforementioned category.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has provided the latest on such a deal, stating: “Arsenal are there for Julian Alvarez, Arsenal are waiting and have their own strategy.
“It’s a real strategy. While they are waiting, Arsenal are active in conversations because Arsenal confirmed to Atletico Madrid that they would be ready to make business.”
Any deal for the former Manchester City star could cost a pretty penny, with the Spanish giants said to be wanting at least £100m to sanction a sale for the Argentine international.
However, it would be money well spent for the Gunners, with the 26-year-old a player who has constantly showcased his talented in Spain’s top-division.
His stats from the 2025/26 campaign demonstrate his elite-level quality in forward areas, which could hand Arteta the final piece to his current attacking puzzle.
Alvarez managed to register 12 goal contributions within his 29 league outings for Atletico, even managing to find the net 10 times in the Champions League.
His goalscoring ability is only part of his skillset, with the Argentine also showcasing his ability to provide endless opportunities for those around him in the final third.
He created 2.2 chances per 90 last campaign, with such a figure ranking him in the top 6% of all players in Europe’s top-five leagues – backing up Pau Cubarsi claim that he’s “world-class.”
Alvarez’s quality is further evident with his dribbling ability, as he registered 1.3 successful take-ons per 90 – which also placed him above 80% of players in his position.
He managed to put an end product to his mazy runs – as seen by his goal tally – but also his cross success, which saw him pick out a teammate with 32% of his efforts.
Whilst such a deal may cost a small fortune this summer, there’s no disputing Alvarez is an elite-level talent, but such a calibre of player comes with a mammoth price tag.
If the Gunners are to finish at the top of the table again, a deal for the former Manchester City star should be a priority, with the attacker undoubtedly able to provide an upgrade on the departing Martinelli.
