Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli, two offensive players for Arsenal, are attracting interest from La Liga powerhouse Atletico Madrid, TEAMtalk can exclusively reveal. Both Martinelli, 24, and Jesus, 28, have had their roles changed this season; according to insiders, they are now considered more as squad players at the Emirates.
According to insiders, Arsenal would not obstruct any player’s decision to explore a transfer elsewhere. Although Martinelli’s contract has a 12-month extension option, both forwards are still under contract through 2027.
Jesus has only made two Premier League starts so far this season, which has been disappointing. He was given permission to work with his old team, Palmeiras, during the current international break, which has increased rumours regarding his future.
According to sources, Jesus would seriously contemplate going back to Brazil this summer. Opportunities in Europe are still available, though, and Atletico Madrid is one of the teams that has made preliminary contact over a possible trade.
Atlético eye Arsenal duo in summer shake-up
Atlético’s approach to replace departing important players with proven top-flight experience without completely rebuilding their team is seen in their pursuit of Jesus and Martinelli. Potential sales may fit well with Arsenal’s present strategy of changing the team while keeping transfer options open. This interest also shows how departing moves may affect incoming transactions, as does Arsenal’s tracking of other attacking prospects.
The 28-year-old Jesus has only started two Premier League games this season and trained with Palmeiras over the international break, raising more questions about his future. Although he is open to going back to Brazil, European teams like Atlético are also interested in him. The 24-year-old Martinelli is not presently anticipated to sign a new deal with Arsenal, and RB Leipzig, Marseille, and Atlético have expressed interest in him.
Both players have contracts that expire in 2027, and Arsenal has the authority to negotiate any extensions for Martinelli. Although Atlético’s interest is unrelated to Arsenal’s pursuit of Julián Álvarez, the clubs’ current communication may help to forward negotiations. One or both Brazilians might be acquired by Atlético to bolster their front line, while Arsenal might decide to keep them in order to maintain offensive depth.
