Arsenal Target Marcus Rashford as Martinelli Replacement

Arsenal are weighing up a bold move to replace Gabriel Martinelli with Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, according to the UK Telegraph.

Martinelli is poised to leave the Emirates in a deal worth more than £50 million, a fee that would represent a club-record sale for the Gunners. The Brazil winger has reportedly given the green light to a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, having earlier turned down interest from Galatasaray.

The timing has raised eyebrows inside the club. The report notes “some internal surprise” at Arsenal’s decision to sanction Martinelli’s exit before securing a ready-made replacement for the left flank.

Now the champions are said to be targeting Rashford on a loan deal as they look to plug that gap. The England international, whose future at Old Trafford has been the subject of increasing speculation, has spent the last two seasons out on loan with Aston Villa and Barcelona.

If Arsenal push ahead, it would mark one of the most intriguing attacking reshuffles of the window: a fan favourite sold for a record fee, and a high-profile rival forward lined up to step into his space.