It’s no secret that defender has been an apparent necessity at the Emirates. e355k

However, despite the shock exit of Sven Mislintat and financial barricades, the Gunners already seem to have begun their squad reconstruction. According to Metro, the Londoners have reached a verbal agreement to sign Gabriel Martinelli.

The Brazilian prospect has caught the eye of European giants before as Manchester United had called him up for a trial not too long ago. But though the Red Devils ruled against importing Martinelli, his recent exploits have attracted the attention of more European clubs including Barcelona.

As a matter of fact, the report suggests that the Emirates outfit have beaten 25 clubs to win the favour of the youngster.

With 10 goals this season for Sao Paulo outfit Ituano, Martinelli seems to be someone who can be developed into a useful attacker in the near future.

As of now, the agreement is said to be verbal and the announcement is withheld due to the Brazilian not yet obtaining his Italian port. It would take around 2 weeks for that to happen according to reports and an official announcement is likely to follow.

The news is ed by the forward’s agent who confirmed his colleague wishes to head to a European club, though it hardly solidifies his rumoured switch to England, and specifically Arsenal.