Arsenal Set to Beat Manchester United in Race for 17-Year-Old Brazilian Striker Gabriel Martinelli

​Arsenal are reportedly leading the race ahead of Manchester United to sign Ituano's 17-year-old Brazilian striker Gabriel Martinelli.

The youngster has emerged as one of South America's hottest properties, with no fewer than 25 clubs vying for the forwards's signature - but the Gunners are thought to be leading the pack ahead of rival Premier League side United.

Brazilian outlet ​Globo Esporte claim eight Brazilian Serie A sides are joined by a further 16 European clubs in the race, with the player's agent Marcos Casseb stating him and his client are already making inroads towards a move across the Atlantic.

"To be honest we expected that to happen," he said, via the ​Express"His evolution since last year is very fast, he is above average. The initial planning is for him to go straight to Europe."

Unai Emery

The striker has previously had trials with ​United and ​Barcelona, while ​Arsenal made their interest known after scouting the player at a youth tournament and during a league game against Palmeiras.


Martinelli has already scored six goals and contributed with three assists in the Brazilian league this season, having been prolific throughout his time at the Sao Paulo based outfit after rising through the youth ranks at the club.

One issue surrounding any potential deal for the youngster regards the player's eligibility for a work permit under current UK legislation. However, this could be bypassed should the forward obtain an Italian passport in June, something he could achieve due to his ancestry.

Denis Suarez

In other news, ​Arsenal look set to snub the opportunity to sign Denis Suarez on a permanent deal in the summer, with the Spaniard failing to impress boss Unai Emery sufficiently after joining on loan from Barcelona in January.


Source : 90min