Arsenal star considers transfer if premier league title is secured
Potential high-profile exit post-championship
Should the Gunners secure the Premier League title, a scenario not witnessed since 2004, roster changes are anticipated, according to Silvestre. Arsenal needs victories in their final two matches against already-relegated Burnley and Crystal Palace to seal the championship. This achievement would mark Mikel Arteta as the first Arsenal manager since Arsène Wenger to hoist the coveted trophy. Their closest rivals, Manchester City, trail by two points and must contend with a formidable Bournemouth side and Europa League finalist Aston Villa. Irrespective of whether the London club achieves a domestic league triumph or even a potential Premier League and Champions League double – possibly featuring a final against Paris Saint-Germain – management is expected to bolster Arteta’s squad during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Gabriel Martinelli’s reduced playing time
Beyond potential departures from lesser-used squad members, former Arsenal defender Silvestre suggests that the timing could be “ideal” for Gabriel Martinelli to move on. Martinelli holds the distinction of being Arsenal’s longest-serving player, having made nearly 300 appearances for the Gunners since his first-team debut in 2019.
Despite featuring in over 100 matches across the previous two seasons, the Brazilian international, who boasts 22 caps for his country, has primarily been utilized as a substitute this year, with only ten league starts. This lack of consistent first-team action could prompt him to explore new opportunities away from North London.
Silvestre’s insights on the Brazilian forward
“Gabriel Martinelli might seek to engineer a transfer due to his current lack of minutes on the pitch,” Silvestre commented. “As a Brazilian international, he naturally desires to play regularly, and currently, Leandro Trossard is ahead of him in the pecking order for that role. Given his tenure at the club, it’s plausible he’ll consider opportunities elsewhere. Departing after securing the championship would be an opportune moment for him, provided he identifies the right club. Concurrently, Arsenal would need to secure a suitable replacement. Otherwise, I don’t foresee any other area of the squad requiring immediate reinforcement.”
Potential successor emerges
Arsenal is reportedly eyeing Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as they aim to bolster their attacking options this summer. Silvestre suggests the promising young Frenchman could be an excellent candidate to step in should Martinelli depart from the Emirates Stadium.
“If Martinelli were to move on, Bradley Barcola could certainly vie for a starting spot alongside Trossard,” Silvestre elaborated. “He still has areas of his game to refine, which explains why he isn’t yet a regular starter in the Champions League. Nevertheless, he already boasts an array of impressive qualities. Should he enhance his finishing ability, he has the potential to become a truly complete player. His current prowess in one-on-one situations, creating space, delivering assists, and making key passes is already remarkable and makes him a formidable opponent.”