Arsenal ‘rejected’ two huge players from Barcelona in stunning swap deal during summer transfer window

Arsenal reportedly rejected two offers from Barcelona this summer for Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli, as Hansi Flick sought a new left winger for the team.

Barcelona had been linked with Spain’s Euro 2024 standout, Nico Williams, after his impressive performances alongside Lamine Yamal. However, after much speculation, Williams opted to extend his contract with Athletic Bilbao until 2027 instead of joining the Catalan giants.

Flick continued his search for a left-sided player, considering Martinelli as the ‘main Plan B’ on his list. Despite being on Barcelona’s radar for some time, financial difficulties led the club to propose two players in exchange for the 23-year-old.

Initially, they offered Ferran Torres, who had joined from Manchester City for £45 million in January 2022. Torres was reportedly interested in working with Mikel Arteta, but Arsenal ruled out the move during the summer transfer window.

Barcelona then suggested a more enticing option: former Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen. Arteta saw the Danish international’s Premier League experience and versatility as valuable, and Arsenal is expected to maintain its interest in him, with a contract running until 2026.

Despite some recent inconsistency, Martinelli remains a key player for Arsenal, although he faces competition for his starting spot from Leandro Trossard.

 

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