Agbonlahor on Gabriel Martinelli quitting Arsenal amid source’s ‘huge’ reveal
Gabriel Martinelli would snub a move to Chelsea to stay at Arsenal, according to Gabby Agbonlahor.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Aston Villa and England attacker claimed Arsenal will finish above Chelsea and can match any contract offer from their London rivals.
Martinelli has caught the eye for the Gunners this season and has entered the final two years of his contract but the club have the option to extend it by a further two years.
The Daily Mail reported earlier this month (2 October) that Chelsea are among the clubs monitoring the 21-year-old.
Sources told Football Insider on Sunday (9 October) that Arsenal are in advanced negotiations with Martinelli over a new contract.
It is understood that the Brazil international is set for a “huge” pay rise and a new deal would run until the summer of 2026 with the option for a further 12 months.
Asked whether Chelsea’s interest could tempt Martinelli, Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “No, Arsenal will finish above Chelsea this season, I wouldn’t worry about that.
“Martinelli is loved at Arsenal. They can match Chelsea’s wage offer if they want to.
“Arsenal will finish above Chelsea so will be playing Champions League football next season.
“I don’t see that happening, I feel that Martinelli is happy at Arsenal.
“I love watching him. He’s very direct, he’s very quick. He just doesn’t stop. Defenders might think they can have a breather but he’s there again running at them, knocking the ball past them.”
Martinelli moved to the Emirates Stadium in the summer of 2019 and has played almost 100 times across all competitions for the club.
He also has three international caps but is yet to start a game for his country.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has claimed Arsenal fans now have a voice in the boardroom as Tim Lewis news emerges.