Arsenal could be preparing for one of their biggest squad overhauls under manager Mikel Arteta, with reports suggesting that both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard may leave the club as the Gunners look to strengthen their attack ahead of the new season.
The North London side has established itself as one of Europe’s elite teams in recent years, consistently challenging for major honours in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League. However, despite their progress, Arsenal are still searching for the final pieces needed to transform them from title contenders into serial trophy winners.
According to emerging reports, Arsenal’s new sporting leadership, headed by Andrea Berta, is planning an ambitious attacking rebuild that could see four new forwards arrive before the start of the new campaign. The names linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium include Morgan Rogers, Bradley Barcola, Christos Tzolis, and highly-rated youngster Monga.
The potential arrivals would significantly reshape Arteta’s attacking options and could ultimately lead to the departures of two fan favourites: Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.
Arteta Still a Fan of Martinelli
Despite the speculation, reports indicate that Mikel Arteta remains a strong admirer of Gabriel Martinelli. The Brazilian winger has been one of Arsenal’s most exciting players since arriving from Brazil in 2019 and has developed into a key figure during Arteta’s tenure.
Martinelli’s pace, work rate, pressing ability, and eye for goal have made him a valuable asset. The 25-year-old has contributed important goals and assists in several campaigns and has often delivered in high-pressure situations.
Sources suggest Arteta would be happy to continue working with Martinelli and still views him as an important member of the squad. However, Arsenal’s hierarchy is believed to be considering a broader strategic approach aimed at maximizing the club’s chances of winning major trophies.
Andrea Berta reportedly wants to build a squad with even greater depth and competition across all attacking positions. As a result, difficult decisions may have to be made regarding current players.
Arsenal Targeting Four Attacking Reinforcements
The most intriguing aspect of the reported plan is Arsenal’s pursuit of four attacking talents.
Morgan Rogers
The Aston Villa star has enjoyed a rapid rise and has become one of the most exciting young attackers in English football. His versatility allows him to operate as a winger, attacking midfielder, or second striker.
Rogers’ creativity, dribbling, and physical presence have reportedly made him a priority target for Arsenal.
Bradley Barcola
Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola is another player attracting interest from top European clubs. The French international is regarded as one of the brightest young attacking talents in Europe.
His pace, technical quality, and ability to create chances could provide Arsenal with a different dimension in attack.
Christos Tzolis
The Greek winger has revived his career with impressive performances and has emerged as one of Europe’s most productive attackers. Arsenal reportedly see him as a player capable of adding goals, assists, and tactical flexibility.
Monga
The highly-rated teenage sensation is viewed as one of the future stars of European football. Arsenal’s recruitment team reportedly believes he could develop into a world-class attacker under Arteta’s guidance.
Why Martinelli and Trossard Could Leave
Squad depth is essential for clubs competing on multiple fronts, but it also creates challenges when managing playing time.
If Arsenal successfully complete all four signings, the competition for places would become intense. Existing stars such as Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Ethan Nwaneri, and other attacking options would already be battling for minutes.
Adding Rogers, Barcola, Tzolis, and Monga could make it difficult to guarantee regular game time for Martinelli and Trossard.
Reports suggest Arsenal would be willing to listen to offers for both players if suitable bids arrive. The club is believed to value both attackers highly and would only sanction departures if the financial terms align with their long-term plans.
Trossard, who has often proven to be Arsenal’s super-sub, remains a valuable squad member. However, at his age, Arsenal may see this summer as the ideal opportunity to generate funds for reinvestment.
Martinelli’s situation is more complex. Given his age and potential, any sale would likely command a substantial transfer fee.
Arsenal’s World Cup Deadline
One of the most interesting details emerging from the reports is Arsenal’s desire to complete their transfer business before the end of the FIFA World Cup period.
The club reportedly wants new signings integrated into the squad as early as possible, allowing Arteta ample time to prepare his team for the challenges ahead.
Early transfer activity would also prevent Arsenal from entering bidding wars later in the window and could help the club focus on tactical preparations rather than transfer negotiations.
Fan Reaction Divided
The possibility of Martinelli leaving has sparked significant debate among Arsenal supporters.
Many fans believe the Brazilian still has enormous potential and should remain part of the club’s long-term project. Others argue that Arsenal must be ruthless if they want to compete with Europe’s very best and that no player should be considered untouchable.
Social media discussions have been filled with differing opinions. Some supporters view Martinelli as an essential member of the squad, while others believe upgrading certain attacking positions could be necessary to achieve Premier League and Champions League success.
What Happens Next?
At this stage, Arsenal’s transfer plans remain the subject of intense speculation. While there is clear admiration for Martinelli from Arteta, the club’s broader strategy under Andrea Berta may ultimately determine the winger’s future.
If Arsenal succeed in signing multiple attacking players, significant departures could follow. Martinelli and Trossard are among the names being discussed, but the final decision will likely depend on incoming offers and the progress of Arsenal’s transfer pursuits.
The coming weeks could prove crucial as Arsenal attempt to build a squad capable of finally ending their wait for major silverware. Whether Gabriel Martinelli remains part of that journey is a question that may dominate headlines throughout the transfer window.