Gabriel Martinelli could leave Arsenal this summer if the Gunners clinch the Premier League title, according to former defender Mikael Silvestre. The Brazilian winger has featured predominantly from the bench this season despite being Arsenal's longest-serving player, with only ten league starts compared to over 100 appearances across the past two seasons.
Martinelli's reduced game-time has raised questions about his future at the Emirates. With Leandro Trossard receiving more regular minutes in the attacking lineup, the 22-cap international may seek a fresh challenge elsewhere. Silvestre believes winning the title would provide ideal timing for the 24-year-old to depart, having already accumulated nearly 300 appearances since his 2019 debut. "Gabriel Martinelli might be the one who wants to trigger a transfer because of the game-time," Silvestre told Betpack. "He's a Brazil international, he wants to play, and Leandro Trossard gets more game time than him."
Barcola as Potential Replacement
Should Martinelli exit, PSG's Bradley Barcola has emerged as a leading candidate to reinforce Arsenal's attacking depth. Silvestre praised the French winger's one-on-one abilities and creative output, though noted areas for improvement. "If Martinelli was to make space, then Bradley Barcola could definitely be one that should compete with Trossard," Silvestre explained. "Still, some parts of his game need to improve. That's why he's not a regular in the Champions League, but he's got so much quality."
Arsenal face a critical run-in to secure their first Premier League title since 2004. With Mikel Arteta's side two points clear of Manchester City heading into the final fixtures against Burnley and Crystal Palace, any squad overhaul depends on silverware success. The potential Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain could further influence transfer decisions across the squad, as Arteta prepares to strengthen his roster for sustained European competition.