Martin Keown understands why Arsenal might want to sell Gabriel Martinelli, but he hopes Mikel Arteta will keep the Brazilian star at Emirates.

Martin Keown understands why Arsenal might want to sell Gabriel Martinelli, but he hopes Mikel Arteta will keep the Brazilian star at Emirates.

Arsenal has enjoyed a fantastic start to the 2026/27 season, following their 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City with an identical scoreline against Coventry City on the opening weekend of the Premier League.

However, Martinelli was absent from both matchday squads, sparking speculation that his seven-year spell in north London could soon end.

The winger's performance dipped last season, scoring just one goal and providing four assists as Arsenal won the Premier League, though he was more effective in the Champions League and FA Cup.

New summer signing Christos Tzolis has impressed on the left wing during Martinelli's absence, and The Gunners are still searching for another attacker before the transfer window closes, with a potential record-breaking move for Julián Álvarez in the offing.

Martinelli rejected a move to Galatasaray but is reportedly open to joining Al-Hilal. Arsenal is in talks with the Saudi Pro League club and hopes to receive up to £60 million for the 25-year-old.

Ian Wright has been vocal in criticizing Arsenal's treatment of the player. While Keown doesn't entirely agree with that assessment, he believes Martinelli still has plenty to offer Arteta.

When asked whether Arsenal has moved past Martinelli, the Gunners legend told talkSPORT: "No, I think he still has a place. I think he played well toward the end of last season.

"Tzolis has adapted very well. So, they [Arsenal] might be considering that and maybe there's someone else in the transfer market they need to raise funds for by selling Gabriel Martinelli.

"They can't let his contract run down. The club has to make a decision, and everyone has to accept that.

"He needs to be very clear about his position at the club. If he goes, it will be a real shame, because I've always admired the way he plays.

"But if Arsenal want to take it to the next level and he has one year left on his contract..."

Martinelli is indeed in the final year of his deal, though Arsenal has the option to extend it until 2028.

While his future may not be in north London, Tzolis looks set to make a major impact for The Gunners this season, after providing three assists in the opening two matches.

"Tzolis? Yes, incredible," Keown added.

"I think this is one of the best debuts I've ever seen from a winger. The last time I felt this way was probably Ljungberg coming off the bench in a 3-0 win over Manchester United.

"The kid's decision-making is outstanding, and he and Calafiori have developed a great understanding on the left side, connecting quickly and effectively.

"He's exceeded expectations; it feels like Arsenal are searching for another Trossard across Europe, with the same football intelligence. This player might even be quicker.

"Compared to his time at Norwich, this is clearly a huge step up. He's certainly performing far better than the last time he came to Emirates. But that experience clearly gave him Premier League experience to start like this."

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