Arsenal chasing Gabriel Martinelli

Arsenal are in the race to sign Brazilian starlet Gabriel Martinelli, according to a report from the Express today. Crystal Palace are also amongst the other teams that have shown interest in the forward.

Martinelli's agent, Marcos Casseb, admitted to reporters that a move to Europe looks increasingly likely: "His evolution since last year is very fast, he is above average. The initial planning is for him to go straight to Europe."

The 17-year-old, known as simply "Martinelli" in his homeland, plays for Brazilian side Ituano having stared his young career with Corinthians. Unsurprisingly, his former club are also in the race to sign the player from Ituano.

It is understood that Unai Emery has personally requested that a scout be deployed to monitor Martinelli's progress and that the Spaniard is ready to pay up to $25 million to secure the striker's coveted signature and beat several Spanish teams and wrapping up a deal. Real Madrid are rumoured to have monitored Martinelli in action in recent months.

Arsenal are looking for a striker who could potentially take the role of Aubameyang at the Emirates Stadium.