Arsenal star wanted by Barcelona

Arsenal will hope to continue their good recent form when they face struggling Burnley on Saturday afternoon. 

The Gunners followed up a win over Liverpool with a convincing 6-0 victory over West Ham United on Sunday, and manager Mikel Arteta will be keen to ensure his side continue their good form.

Four consecutive victories have reignited Arsenal’s hopes of winning the Premier League title, with the North London side now sitting third in the table, just two points behind leaders Liverpool.

Off the pitch, though, Arteta and those in charge of the club may face a battle to keep hold of one of their most important players.

As per Mundo Deportivo via Football London, Spanish side Barcelona have identified Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli as a target for this summer.

It is claimed that Liverpool talisman Mohamed Salah was a target for the La Liga giants, but they have since decided to look elsewhere due to the Egyptian’s likely price tag.

Martinelli has emerged as a target for Spanish side Barcelona

Brighton and Hove Albion star Kauro Mitoma is another player being monitored by Barcelona, as well as Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Martinelli, 22, joined the Gunners from Brazilian side Ituano back in 2019 for a fee of just £6 million.

Since arriving in London, the Brazilian has scored 40 goals and provided 22 assists in 158 games across all competitions.

Arteta will undoubtedly be keen to keep hold of a player that has become integral for his side, making 28 appearances so far this term including 22 Premier League games.

Martinelli’s current contract is set to run until 2027, and Arsenal are unlikely to allow him to leave any time soon due to his importance to Arteta’s team.

The player’s previous deal had been set to expire this summer, but the Brazil international signed an extension in March last year which also includes the option for a further 12 months.