"I just need…" – Martinelli explains why he's signed a new long-term deal with Arsenal

Arsenal have confirmed that Gabriel Martinelli has signed a new long-term deal with the club, committing his future to the Emirates Stadium.

The Brazilian's contract previously ran until 2024, with the option of an extra year, with the news a big boost for Arsenal's long-term future.

It is believed, as per The Athletic, that he has agreed to a new four-and-a-half year deal, which will expire in the summer of 2027.

He has scored seven goals and provided two assists this season, and has been one of Mikel Arteta's key players in helping the Gunners to lead the Premier League by five points at present.

The news will come as a great relief to Edu and Arteta, who have been in talks with the trio of Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and William Saliba over new deals.

They have already activated a year's extension on Saliba, whose contract had been due to run out this summer, and have done likewise with Saka.

Martinelli speaks out on new contract

Speaking on the announcement video for his new contract, Martinelli said: "This is my club. I love everything about Arsenal. I want to stay. Yeah, I just need to get a pen and sign."

"I was born a long way away from north London, but as soon as I got here, the supporters made me feel like one of them. It didn't take me long to realise that this place is about more than football.

"It's about us. Our heritage, our togetherness, and our community spirit that you have to experience to understand. Day by day we make new memories together and feel the pride that comes from being a Gunner.

"I feel it every day. I feel it on the pitch. I feel it walking down the streets when someone stops to tell me, 'You were class this weekend, mate'.

"So thank you Gunners, for making me feel at home. I couldn't imagine being anywhere else."

Gabi signs on ❤️ pic.twitter.com/mgMIzdt68O

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 3, 2023

In a club statement confirming the forward's new contract, Arsenal boss Arteta said: "We're delighted Gabi has signed a new long-term contract. Our supporters see his quality and energy every single time he puts on the shirt and he's the same every day in training, with his hard work and positive values.

"Gabi is still very young, so we know there's still much more to come from him and it's great that we'll be on this journey together. We're now excited to continue to develop his huge talent and look forward to seeing him perform with Arsenal in the years to come."