Arsenal’s summer transfer window plans could hinge on whether one of their first-team stars leaves the club this summer.
The Gunners have set about bolstering their squad ahead of the 2025-26 campaign with Kepa Arrizabalaga arriving from Chelsea to provide cover and competition for David Raya in goal.
Martin Zubimendi will arrive from Real Sociedad to strengthen the midfield while Brentford captain Christian Norgaard will also come in to replace Thomas Partey, who has left the club as a free agent.
Signing a striker is a top priority for Arsenal, exploring moves for Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres. The club are also in talks to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.
Arsenal also want to strengthen their wide options with a player who can play on the left and also provide cover for Bukayo Saka on the right.
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Real Madrid star Rodrygo, Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United and Chelsea’s Noni Madueke are all of interest – but whether Arsenal move forward will depend on the future of Gabriel Martinelli.
The Brazil international has been linked with a move away from the Emirates with Saudi side Al Nassr among those credited with interest in his services.
When fit, Martinelli is Arteta’s first choice option on the left in an attacking trio alongside Saka and Kai Havertz.
The 24-year-old scored 10 times and provided six assists last season – a respectable haul but one Arteta perhaps feels can be improved.
While Arsenal are exploring moves for other wide options, David Ornstein of The Athletic suggests a move is unlikely if Martinelli remains in north London.
‘They’ve always wanted to strengthen on the left wing, but they’ve got Gabriel Martinelli, a very fine player, there already,’ David Ornstein told The Athletic FC Podcast.
‘If he were to leave, then you can see them bringing in a top left-sided winger. If he’s not to leave, then I don’t think so.
‘We’ve talked and reported on Rodrygo and Anthony Gordon – I think that’s if Martinelli leaves.
‘I don’t necessarily think that’s if he were to stay.’
Arsenal were in contact with Rodrygo’s representatives in May with Real valuing the winger at €80million (£67m).
Latest reports in Spain suggest the Gunners have halted contact with the Brazilian’s camp with any move not expected to happen until the end of the summer transfer window.
