Transfer Rumors: Arsenal Forward Could Succeed Ronaldo But Not Soon

Gabriel Martinelli has been getting a lot of success with Arsenal FC as of late. So far, he has registered 10 goals through 21 appearances, making him a prized catch for The Gunners. However, it does send signals that the 18-year-old has drawn the attention of other teams as well.

There is no doubt that various clubs took note of Martinelli's potential. One of the teams that invited him was Barcelona who gave him a trial at Liga giants. The Brazilian reveals that he spent 15 days in La Masia but nothing really came out of it. Feeling that his stay there was meaningless, Martinelli decided to return to Ituano and played for Copinha, Marca reported.

It turns out that the move worked for him. Arsenal FC came and eventually signed the 18-year-old in the summer of 2019. Though he did not get that opportunity with Barca, he is thankful for the opportunity given. For him, it was a dream come true to see how they trained and see the team, it was all a fulfillment for him.

“I even trained with Ansu Fati and we became friends. He helped me a lot there and is now playing in the main team. He is a boy who deserves everything that is happening to him. He is super humble and welcomed me really well there.”

Martinelli also revealed that he idolizes Real Madrid legend, Cristiano Ronaldo. He admires him for his strength of will and how he works hard to get what he wants. In all, the Gunners starlet looks up to the 35-year-old forward a lot. He is someone that influences Martinelli, raising suggestions that Martinelli could eventually be considered as his successor at Santiago Bernabeu.

While that could happen in the future, Martinelli remains focused on fulfilling his obligations with his current team. No feelers have been sent his way so there is nothing to think about, for now, Goal.com reported. Being just 18, the only thing certain is that the Brazilian has captured the attention of several teams already. He will be on the radar of most but his present commitment remains with the Gunners. On whether that changes moving forward is anyone's guess.

“I am focused here doing my job at Arsenal and my head is here,” he said.