Exclusive: Arsenal turn attention to agreeing deal for Gabriel Martinelli replacement

Arsenal have set their sights on signing a new wide forward in the summer transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.

It is believed the Gunners are keen to bring in an upgrade on current first-XI star Gabriel Martinelli, 23, as they eye a significant jump next term.

Bukayo Saka is the undisputed first-choice winger on the right side and any incoming player will primarily play on the opposite flank – with Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams towards the top of their early target list.

Football Insider has already revealed (5 May) that Arsenal have decided not to pursue a permanent move for Raheem Sterling once his loan spell concludes this summer.

Arsenal ready to seal blockbuster winger deal

Mikel Arteta’s side are also keen to bring in a central striker following their struggles with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus out injured this term.

Sources have told Football Insider (13 May) that Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is their top striker target for the summer.

Appearances (Starts)49 (38)Minutes Played3403Goals10Assists6Yellow Cards3Martinelli’s Arsenal stats in the 2024-25 campaign (all competitions)

Martinelli has struggled to flourish in the same way as counterpart Saka, and has managed just 10 goals and six assists in 49 appearances this term.

He has been rotated with 30-year-old Leandro Trossard with Arsenal falling short in their pursuit of the Premier League and Champions League in the 2024-25 campaign.

Martinelli’s contract at the Emirates Stadium is set to run until 2027, with Arsenal holding the option to extend it a further 12 months.

Saliba is a top target at Real Madrid.

Arsenal prepare to open Saliba talks

Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (9 May) that Arsenal plan to hold contract talks with William Saliba this summer in order to fend off interest from Real Madrid.

Saliba’s current deal runs until June 2027 but Real have a history of unsettling top targets coming towards the end of their contracts.

Arteta is desperate to keep the French centre-back at the Emirates Stadium long-term.