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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
JAMES OLLEY

Arsenal target Gabriel Martinelli finalising European passport amid Unai Emery interest

Arsenal have been linked with a move for 17-year-old Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli.

The teenager, who plays for Sao Paulo club Ituano, is in the process of finalising an Italian passport prior to turning 18 in June — both factors which will make a transfer to the Premier League a much easier proposition.

According to Brazilian outlet UOL Esporte, the Gunners are one of several interested clubs — his agent mentioned 25 different sides — but Emery is thought to be a keen admirer.

The Spaniard has identified a new winger as a key priority this summer as the club continue their squad overhaul following Arsene Wenger’s departure.

Elsewhere, Emery believes Konstantinos Mavropanos’ relationship with Sokratis Papastathopoulos can help the young Greek defender realise a “bright future” at the club after making his fifth Premier League start in 3-2 home loss to Crystal Palace.

“Papa [Sokratis] is close to Mavropanos and I think he is a good example and can tell him about his experiences to use for him to grow up and improve,” said Emery.

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