Barcelona’s search for a new winger has taken an interesting turn. The Catalan club continues to chase big-name arrivals this summer.
However, behind the scenes, they are quietly lining up alternative plans in case their main targets prove too expensive or hard to secure.
The focus is clear, the club wants to add more pace and unpredictability on the flanks.
With Hansi Flick, The Blaugrana has found a manager who is willing to play expansive football, something fans missed from Barcelona in the past few years.
Now, they are focused on brining more exciting players who can add flair to their already entertaining forward line.
So, the attention has turned toward players who can offer explosiveness out wide, something that has been in DNA of Barcelona.
Two of the standout names on their radar are well known in the Premier League.
Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford and Liverpool’s Luis Diaz both feature prominently in the club’s wishlist, but their high valuations and the complexity of dealing with English clubs could make things difficult.
That is why Barcelona are now exploring a list of alternative names and one of them is raising eyebrows.
The club has quietly added a Premier League forward to their shortlist, one who has been a key figure at his club but has not been widely linked with a move away until now.
Gabriel Martinelli, the Brazilian winger from Arsenal, has entered the picture.
According to Diario Sport, the 23-year-old is being monitored as a potential option if deals for Rashford or Diaz do not materialise.
His ability to play on either wing, combined with his work rate and technical ability, makes him a suitable fit for the Blaugrana’s attacking plans.
Arsenal, however, would not let him go easily. The Gunners view Martinelli as a central part of their future and would demand a significant transfer fee.
Mike Arteta is looking to bring the Premier League trophy this season after finishing second in the last three seasons in a row.
So, the Gunners are aiming to build a stronger frontline of their own this summer with Gabriel Martinelli as a key part of their attacking front.
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