Arsenal are bracing for a potentially disruptive summer transfer window with reports indicating that Bayern Munich have identified Gabriel Martinelli as a key target to strengthen their frontline. The German giants are said to be intensifying their pursuit of the Arsenal forward after missing out on top target Florian Wirtz, who now appears set for a move to Liverpool.
Martinelli, a vital component of Mikel Arteta’s squad and a fan favourite, has reportedly made Bayern’s shortlist as they look to overhaul their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 season. Despite publicly expressing his love for Arsenal and calling it his “home,” whispers around the Emirates suggest the club might consider selling for the right price.
With the Brazilian’s contract running until 2027 and an option to extend it by an additional year, Arsenal find themselves in a strong negotiating position. However, should Bayern table a bid exceeding £50 million, the North London club may be tempted to cash in, especially considering the forward was signed in 2019 for just £5 million. Such a deal would represent a staggering return on investment.
Internally, Arsenal are reportedly planning a summer squad reshuffle to create room for new signings while managing financial flexibility. Alongside Martinelli, names like Oleksandr Zinchenko, Reiss Nelson, Jakub Kiwior, Fabio Vieira, and Albert Sambi Lokonga have also been mentioned as potential departures. This reflects a broader effort to streamline the squad and reduce the wage bill ahead of a pivotal season.
For Bayern Munich, Martinelli presents a unique proposition. With his explosive pace, relentless work ethic, and ability to play across the frontline, he fits the mould of the modern versatile attacker. His Premier League experience, coupled with his international pedigree 19 caps for Brazil adds further appeal.
The Bundesliga giants are also said to be scouting other Premier League talents. Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo are reportedly on their radar, while Nico Williams is close to joining Barcelona. Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, another exciting winger, is also being tracked, indicating Bayern’s wide-ranging search for attacking reinforcements.
Martinelli, who has made 225 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 51 goals and providing 29 assists, has evolved into a key figure under Arteta. Letting him go would not only require a significant fee but also necessitate finding a capable replacement capable of matching his output and versatility.
While no formal bid has been made yet, this transfer saga could develop rapidly as both clubs look to shape their squads for the upcoming season. Whether Arsenal can resist Bayern’s interest or opt to capitalise on Martinelli’s rising value remains one of the summer’s most intriguing subplots.
