Second source backs up Arsenal interest in player, talks initiated, and an offer detailed

Arsenal’s interest in the Ituano wonderkid Gabriel Martinelli is once again reported by the Brazilian media today.

This time, it’s journalist Jorge Nicola from Yahoo who says the Gunners have been watching the 17-year-old ‘with attention’.

The report, which claims that two other Premier League sides are interested in the player, says that Ituano are demanding €5m for 50% of his rights. It’s reported that ‘a European giant’ has offered €3.5m for 70%, and got ‘no’ for an answer.

Meanwhile, there are several Brazilian clubs who are interested in Martinelli. Santos, Palmeiras, Flamengo, São Paulo, Atlético and Cruzeiro all have hopes of signing the striker, but are unlikely to compete with European sides.

Yahoo also claims that Martinelli is now in process of getting an EU passport, which would make things easier for him to move in the summer.

“We want to solve it as soon as possible, but there is no deadline,” said Marcos Casseb, the player’s agent.

Earlier this week, similar claims have come from UOL. They said Arsenal have been sending scouts to see Martinelli, started talks on a transfer, and could sign him in a deal worth €8m. It was also claimed the other two Premier League sides keen on the player were Crystal Palace and Watford.