Arsenal are in ‘direct negotiations’ with star attacker Gabriel Martinelli over a new contract, according to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Martinelli’s contract

Having signed his last deal with the north London outfit in 2020, the Brazil international’s deal with the Gunners is set to initially expire in the summer of 2024, but the club do have the option to extend this by a further year.

The 21-year-old has been imperative in Mikel Arteta’s success this season, with his four goals and two assists in nine games helping the side to the top of the Premier League table.

Since arriving at the emirates in 2019, Martinelli has amassed 95 appearances in a Red and white shirt.

The Latest: Romano’s news

Romano has now shared a fresh update on Martinelli’s contract situation at Arsenal, revealing a positive step in negotiations.

Taking to Twitter, the reliable journalist said:

“Arsenal are already in direct negotiations to extend Gabriel Martinelli's contract, talks have been ongoing for weeks. 'I want to stay', Gabriel said.”

The Verdict: Get it signed…

When looking at the 21-year-old’s underlying stats, it is easy to see why the Gunners are desperate to tie him down to a new long-term deal.

As per FBRef, compared with positional peers across Europe over the past year, the winger ranks in the 95th percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area, in the 91st percentile for blocks and in the 84th percentile for aerials won, combining an elite work ethic with attacking threat.

Having earned statistical comparisons to Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Bayern Munich’s Kingsley Coman, Martinelli certainly has the talent to help push Arsenal in their quest of attaining a Premier League title, be it this season or in the future.

Hailed as a ‘phenomenal’ player by Arteta himself, the Gunners must do all they can to keep the Brazilian at the club.