Longari confirms Martinelli-Napoli link despite denials
journalist Gianluigi Longari confirmed on X that Napoli have established contact with the representatives handling Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, despite the routine denials that have circulated. The Brazilian forward, whose contract runs until 2027, has already rejected Galatasaray and remains open to a move to the south of Italy.
Longari outlines Napoli’s exploratory survey
Longari posted on X a message that read: “Nonostante le smentite di rito, è assolutamente confermato il contatto tra il Napoli e chi si sta occupando di Gabriel Martinelli. Un sondaggio esplorativo volto a comprendere l’eventuale fattibilità dell’operazione per l’attaccante dell’Arsenal. Martinelli ha rifiutato il Galatasaray nei giorni scorsi”. The quote confirms the club’s interest and the player’s recent refusal of Galatasaray.
According to Longari, Napoli are merely gathering information to gauge the margins of manoeuvre with Arsenal, taking into account all necessary costs before deciding whether to proceed. He added that the club’s technical director Giovanni Manna has placed Martinelli on his agenda as a potential major addition for Massimiliano Allegri before the transfer window closes.
Martinelli’s contract with Arsenal expires in 2027, making a summer departure plausible. The forward has already turned down an approach from Galatasaray and has expressed willingness to explore new experiences and adventures,
Longari also suggested that a move could see Martinelli team up with fellow Brazilian Alisson Santos, creating a high‑profile left‑side partnership capable of challenging any defence. This potential duo would provide Napoli with significant attacking firepower.
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Developments are expected in the coming days, and Longari hinted that the next period could be decisive for any final agreement between Napoli and Arsenal. Fans will be watching closely to see whether the exploratory survey turns into a concrete transfer.