According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal were open to listening to offers for Gabriel Martinelli earlier in the summer but only at the right price.

The Gunners valued the Brazilian winger at over £60 million, yet interest from other clubs never exceeded £40 million. That gap in valuation meant no deal was ever likely, and the possibility of a drawn-out saga was swiftly avoided.

A dip after a breakthrough season

Martinelli’s availability came after two quieter campaigns by his standards. Following his sensational 2022-23 season, where he scored 15 Premier League goals and provided six assists, expectations were sky-high.

But since then, his influence has waned slightly, leading to speculation about whether Arsenal might consider cashing in. The muted interest from rival clubs reflected both his recent form and Arsenal’s firm stance on what they see as his true worth.

Arsenal’s stance shows a need for stability

By holding firm on their valuation, Arsenal made it clear they would not be pressured into selling one of their brightest young talents on the cheap. Their £60m price tag was not just about Martinelli’s current output but also his long-term potential. In doing so, the club reaffirmed their commitment to stability as they continue reshaping their attack under Mikel Arteta.

Our view

For Arsenal fans, the report brings mixed emotions. On one hand, there is relief that Martinelli wasn’t sold for just £40 million — a fee that would have felt well below his potential value given his age, pace, and ability to change games. On the other hand, his recent dip in form raises a question: can he rediscover the explosiveness and end product that made him one of the most dangerous wide players in the league in 2022-23?

If he does, Arsenal’s decision to hold firm on their valuation will look like a masterstroke. If not, the debate over his future may resurface in future windows.