La Liga giants have been monitoring young wingers in the past few months. Reports in the Spanish media claim that Barcelona are monitoring Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli.

The 21-year-old has been with Arsenal since 2019, having signed for the club from Ituano for 7.1 million euros. His current deal expires in 2024.

The winger banged in five goals and provided two assists in 20 matches this season across all fronts showcasing just how influential he has been in the final third.

He has been touted as one of the brightest young prospects in Brazil. Martinelli has represented Brazil at Under-23 level, winning 3 caps, before making his senior international debut in March 2022. As a member of Brazil national football team, Martinelli won six caps.

Gabriel Martinelli has been in impressive form for Arsenal this season and it looks like he caught the eye of many European clubs including Barcelona.

Barcelona are looking to sign a winger and have identified the 21-year-old as potential transfer target.

The report claims that Barcelona manager has extensively scouted Martinelli and is considering a move for the winger.

The Brazil international is thought to perfectly fit the profile of winger Xavi wants to target in the winter transfer window. The former Ituano man is a dynamic forward, who possesses good technical skills and ball control. His finishing abilities when in and around the box will come as a massive asset to Xavi’s side.

World Football Rumours

According to the report, “Barcelona are watching Arsenal striker Gabriel Martinelli at the World Cup. Sport says Barcelona are scouting Martinelli in Qatar, knowing he’s about to enter the final 18 months of his contract. Indeed, Barcelona have held a long-term interest in the striker. If Martinelli does not extend his contract with Arsenal, Barcelona could make a serious signing attempt in 2023. Chelsea and PSG are also interested in the 21 year-old.”

However, Barcelona will have to balance the books before attempting to land Martinelli.

The Gunners are eager to keep the winger beyond the current campaign, but the player may look to take the next step in his career.

Good signing for Barcelona?

If Gabriel Martinelli is available for the right price, then he could be a clever acquisition for Barcelona.

It is smart from the club to invest in younger players, rather than splashing out big money on experienced players with no resale value.

A winger of Martinelli’s ceiling will be a massive addition to Barcelona squad as he will not only improve the overall quality of Xavi’s starting XI but also add some stability and variety to his attacking department.

How strong that interest is and whether Barcelona will make a move remains to be seen but it is certainly one worth keeping an eye on.

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Should Barcelona make a move for Gabriel Martinelli?