Gabriel Martinelli (l) on Chelsea radar
Chelsea are reportedly ‘monitoring’ Gabriel Martinelli, with the attacker playing a leading role in Arsenal’s impressive start to the 2022-23 campaign.
The Gunners sit at the top of the Premier League table with 21 points to show from their opening eight matches, and they recorded a 3-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby on Saturday.
Martinelli has been in strong form for Mikel Arteta’s side this term, scoring three goals and registering one assist in eight appearances for the capital outfit.
The Brazil international has now scored 21 goals and registered 14 assists in 93 appearances for Arsenal since joining the club from Brazilian outfit Ituano in 2019.
Martinelli’s current deal with Arsenal is due to expire in June 2024, although the Gunners do have the option of extending the agreement for another year.
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According to the Daily Mail, Arteta’s team are preparing to open talks with the Brazilian over a new and improved deal at the Emirates Stadium.
However, the report claims that Chelsea are keeping a close eye on the developments and could make a move if Arsenal run into difficulties when it comes to a new contract.
Martinelli scored in three of his side’s first five Premier League games of the season, while he provided an assist in the 3-1 win over Tottenham on Saturday.