Three Brazilians who could follow Gabriel Martinelli's example and join Arsenal including the 'next Neymar'

The incredible rise of Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli continued on Monday, as he was named in Brazil's final 26-man squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The forward has had a superb start to the 2022/23 season, scoring five goals and providing two assists in 13 Premier League appearances.

He has formed part of a potent attacking trio alongside Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, who was also named in the Brazil squad.

Martinelli was spotted by Arsenal as a 17-year-old, and joined from Brazilian side Ituano in 2019 when he turned 18.

It took time for him to fully adapt to the top flight of English football, but his finishing prowess and movement was evident from day one, as proven by a superb solo goal against Chelsea in 2020.

But it is the last 18 months that has seen Martinelli go from a top prospect to one of Arsenal's key players. And his form has been fully rewarded with a World Cup call-up.

Here are three other young Brazilian players that could follow in his footsteps and join Arsenal:

Endrick (Palmeiras)

Perhaps the most talked-about 16-year-old footballer on the planet, Palmeiras starlet Endrick can't move clubs until he turns 18 - but that hasn't stopped clubs taking an interest.

A player already described as the 'next Neymar', Endrick has incredible close control and dribbling skills, and despite his height, he also possesses plenty of physicality.

A host of European clubs are reportedly chasing him - including Arsenal. Should he join the Gunners, he could certainly replicate Martinelli and find himself in the Brazil senior squad before too long.

Danilo (Palmeiras)

Another young Palmeiras star, 21-year-old midfielder Danilo has already been heavily linked with the Gunners.

Mikel Arteta's side reportedly launched a bid for the player in January, before going in for the player again on the most recent deadline day.

Now, according to South American football expert Tim Vickery, Arsenal are now seen as 'more likely' to bring the midfielder, a deep-lying midfielder who can use his strength when required, to the Emirates Stadium after Palmeiras failed to win the Copa Libertadores.

This is one to keep an eye on in the upcoming window.

Joao Gomes (Flamengo)

One Brazilian starlet that did win the Copa Libertadores this season was Joao Gomes.

The 19-year-old, whose primary position is central midfield, played a vital role in Flamengo's success in the competition.

Whilst it is Liverpool that are reportedly keen on the midfielder, who can win the ball back and carry it forward with pace, this could be one for the Gunners to track as a potential alternative to Danilo.