CHELSEA are watching Gabriel Martinelli’s contract extension talks with interest, according to reports.
The Brazilian, 21, is on red hot form and discussing a new long-term deal with Arsenal.
And BILD claim that bosses at Stamford Bridge are interested in the youngster and will be keeping a close eye to see if anything materialises.
The winger is at the Emirates until 2024 and he is one of three players the Gunners are hoping to tie down further.
Martinelli reportedly wants his wages TREBLED to £200,000-a-week in order to sign a new deal.
But Gunners chiefs also want to commit Bukayo Saka and William Saliba to long-term deals.
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Martinelli has proved reliable in a number of positions for Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, playing out wide or up top.
The starlet has impressed at the Emirates since his 2019 transfer from Ituano in his native Brazil.
And he has taken up a more prominent role this term following the departures of Nicolas Pepe, Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The South American star has started all but one game for Arsenal this season, scoring four and assisting two.
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He also played a starring role in Arsenal’s 3-1 North London Derby win over Tottenham, being a constant nuisance to Spurs’ full-backs.
After ripping Liverpool’s defence to shreds during last weekend’s thrilling 3-2 win at the Emirates, Martinelli declared that he DOES want to stayat the club.
He said: “Of course I want to stay at Arsenal.”
That will be music to the ears of Arsenal fans, who are desperate to secure his signature on a lengthy new contract and keep the likes of Chelsea at bay.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
