Arsenal touch base with representatives of €40m Brazilian youngster

Arsenal TEAMtalk

Arsenal have made contact with the agent of Brazilian teenager Matheus Martinelli, who has impressed for Fluminense since debuting last year. 

The 19-year-old has made 16 appearances in all, playing in a central or defensive midfield role. He’s netted three goals and registered one assist in those outings. His performances have made him the latest promising South American starlet to attract interest from Europe, just like his namesake Gabriel, who moved to the Emirates in 2019.

And the Gunners are one of those who have been impressed. The Premier League side have been scouting the youngster in order to follow his progress.

And according to Globo Esporte (via Sport Witness) they have now moved to find out more about his situation.

However, they also point out that these were only ‘initial contacts’, meaning a deal nor a bid is on the cards as of yet.

Should the interest go any further, though, the London club would have to pay a hefty €40million release clause.

Fluminense the focus

What’s more, the player and his agents are also happy for Martinelli to remain in Brazil for now.

Mikel Arteta: We know why Arsenal form has been poor

Mikel Arteta: We know why Arsenal form has been poor

Mikel Arteta says it is 'clear' why Arsenal's form has been poor and is confident the team can turn their fortunes around.

 

He is understood to be happy in his current setting and wants to stay in order to develop his game. He also wants to feature in the Copa Libertadores for the first time in 2021. 

Therefore, a move to Europe does not appear to be under consideration right now. But a future transfer has not been ruled out and seems to be a real possibility.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta has revealed what he sees as the “minimum” Arsenal need to acheive this season.