news-engine

Turkish champions Galatasaray have stepped up talks to sign two Arsenal players this summer, according to Sabah (page 23). The Istanbul outfit recently made contact with the Gunners regarding Gabriel Martinelli after being put off by AC Milan’s £51 million asking price for Rafael Leao. Galatasaray are exploring a loan deal for Martinelli with a purchase option, and Sabah claim that the club are also keen on landing Nwaneri alongside the Brazilian. While Martinelli is viewed as a left-wing target, Galatasaray see Nwaneri as a number 10 solution. As things stand, Arsenal have no plans to back down from their high asking price for their graduate. Okan Buruk’s side are eyeing a straight loan deal for the 19-year-old. Arsenal should not entertain loan deals for Martinelli or Nwaneri The Gunners recently had their sights on an ambitious move for Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, but he put pen to paper on a six-year contract with Los Blancos. Arsenal have yet to find a suitable alternative in the transfer market. Juventus’ Kenan Yildiz has been linked, but Juventus are adamant he won’t be heading out. Until the club find a marquee left winger to complement Christos Tzolis, the hierarchy are unlikely to contemplate the departure of Martinelli in the transfer window. Even then, Arsenal should not entertain any loan deal unless there is an obligation to buy. They value the 25-year-old between £39m and £43m, which is a decent price tag. Roma were prepared to pay around £40m plus add-ons for Crysencio Summerville before he chose Al-Hilal. The Giallorossi are keen on Martinelli and could pay a similar fee. Juventus are likewise keeping tabs. Galatasaray may struggle to convince Arsenal or the player, given they are exploring a season-long loan deal with an optional buy clause for next summer. Meanwhile, Nwaneri could end up staying with the Gunners after a lively pre-season. He was one of the best players on the pitch and scored during the 3-2 friendly loss to Borussia Dortmund. Arteta said he was ‘really happy‘ with Nwaneri after his recent outing, and we believe the youngster could stay put rather than pursuing a loan deal or leaving on a permanent basis. Stats from Transfermarkt