Gabriel Martinelli, a winger, has confirmed that he has spoken with Arsenal about extending his contract.
The 21-year-old is in the final two years of his current contract, which Arsenal can extend by an additional year. Manager Mikel Arteta wants to give the player a lucrative extension as compensation for his emergence as a regular starter.
When asked if he wants to remain at the Emirates, Martinelli responded, “Of course, I want to stay. We are talking. Let’s see what is going to happen.
“But I want to stay, of course.”
Martinelli has started each of Arsenal’s first nine Premier League contests, contributing four goals and two assists along the way.
In Sunday’s 3-2 victory over Liverpool, he was a key player. He scored the game’s first goal inside the first minute and then set up Bukayo Saka to score the second just before halftime.
In the upcoming months, Saka’s contract is also up for renewal. Arteta is eager to give new contracts to the important members of his young core, including Martinelli and center-back William Saliba.
Concerns about Manchester City’s interest in signing the England international have prompted a step up in talks with Saka.