Italian website CMW claim that AC Milan will go after Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli if Rafael Leao leaves the Serie A champions before Thursday’s deadline – or in the future – with Chelsea said to be eyeing the Milan talent this window.
Leao, 23, has thrown himself onto the radar of Chelsea after starring in Milan’s Scudetto win last term. Clocking up 42 appearances in all competitions, the nine-time Portugal international had a hand in 26 goals – scoring 14, creating 12.
Reports claim that Chelsea are looking to sign the £127million-rated ace. But Liverpool and Manchester City are also said to be keen. Now, Paolo Maldini has identified a potential successor, should Leao leave Milan in the coming hours.
He wants to raid Arsenal for Martinelli. Signed by Arsenal for £6million from Ituano, Brazil international Martinelli was a relative unknown. But he has gone on to become a fan favourite, producing 33 goal involvements in his 88 outings.
Milan believe there is a chance that Arsenal could sell if the price is right. CMW say that Martinelli is inside the final two years of his current deal, but does have the option for a further deal. But Arsenal could sell, at a figure of £43million.
Milan will go after Arsenal star Martinelli if Leao leaves, Chelsea are keen
It would be an enormous blow for Arsenal to lose Martinelli, especially this late in the window. A potential deal for Leao looks incredibly unlikely at this stage in the window. And Arsenal selling Martinelli is even more unlikely by tomorrow.
However, at some point down the line, Martinelli and Arsenal will have to discuss a new deal. If terms cannot be agreed and Milan make their interest known, there is a chance. The Serie A winners could tempt Martinelli into a move to Italy.
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