Arsenal brace for fresh bid while Martinelli’s future narrows

Gabriel Martinelli, the 25‑year‑old Brazilian forward, is being linked with a possible departure from Arsenal as clubs across Europe monitor his situation. Reports name Serie A sides Roma and Juventus alongside Turkish giants Fenerbahce as the leading suitors.

Kasra Moradi Senior Sports Journalist04:00, 06 Aug 2026, highlighted that after a steady start to the summer the final month of the transfer window looks set to be an exciting one for Arsenal. The Gunners have already secured Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle for £75 million, tying the captain down to a five‑year deal, and have added depth with Piero Hincapie (£34.5 million), Illan Meslier on a free transfer and Christos Tzolis (£34 million) as a replacement for Leandro Trossard.

ImagesMikel Arteta has his sights set on defending Arsenal's Premier League title, and the manager, together with sporting director Andrea Berta, is expected to turn full attention to a defender and a marquee forward after locking in their primary midfield target. The club’s recent activity suggests a willingness to reshuffle the attacking line‑up, which could limit Martinelli’s playing time if a new left winger arrives.

Martinelli is reportedly not rushing a decision; he remains happy at the Emirates and has a year left on his contract. talkSPORT notes that he is not currently open to a move to the Saudi Pro League, despite Al‑Nassr’s interest and the promise of a lucrative contract.

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The Gunners are also circling defender Ezri Konsa, with an offer that fell below Villa’s £60 million valuation. William Saliba’s long‑term injury absence is a key factor in Arteta’s desire for Premier League‑proven centre‑back depth, and Konsa’s ability to play at right‑back adds a bonus.

Aston Villa, who recently sold Morgan Rogers to Chelsea for a mammoth fee, are not under financial pressure to sell Konsa. The England centre‑back still has two years left on his deal and the club can refuse to deviate from its £60 million price tag.

Further transfer developments are expected in north London ahead of Arsenal’s Community Shield clash with Manchester City on 16 Aug. The club’s activity this window will shape both its defensive options and the future of the Brazilian winger.

If a fresh bid materialises, Martinelli could face reduced minutes or a move abroad, while Arsenal would secure the defensive cover they deem essential for a title defence. Either outcome will influence the Gunners’ squad balance as they aim to retain the Premier League crown.