Arsenal plotting move for £40m wonderkid dubbed the 'next Gabriel Martinelli'

Arsenal are interested in signing teenage wonderkid Vitor Roque this summer, according to reports.

Arsenal's title hopes have taken a significant hit in recent weeks, following three draws in a row which has seen them lose valuable ground over second-placed Manchester City.

The Gunners have a crucial five-point lead over City, though Pep Guardiola has two games in hand.

The title is likely to be decided at the Etihad on Wednesday, when the two sides will lock horns in a blockbuster clash.

But regardless of whether Arsenal clinch the title, Mikel Arteta will be keen to add depth to his squad in preparation for next season's busy Champions League schedule, with a top four finish all but guaranteed.

One of the names rumoured with a move to the Emirates is 18-year-old striker Roque, who has announced himself as one of the world's most exciting talents.

Arsenal plotting move for the 'next Martinelli'

Roque has enjoyed a breakout season with Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense, attracting the attention of Europe's elite clubs.

Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Manchester United are all said to be monitoring the Brazil international.

Meanwhile, the Gunners have reportedly sent multiple scouts to watch Roque and are considering a big-money move for him this summer.

The north London club were handed a boost after Roque revealed his desire to play in the Premier League.

And now Chelsea could be forced to withdraw from the race, with the Blues needing to raise funds if they are to stay within Financial Fair Play guidelines, claim Football Insider.

The report also states that Athletico Paranaense value the forward between £35-40 million, which could rule Chelsea out of negotiations and pave the way for Arsenal to sign him.

Indeed, the Gunners' recruitment team are said to believe Roque could 'follow in the footsteps of Martinelli', and view Chelsea's financial situation as the perfect opportunity to 'hijack the deal'.

Topics: Arsenal, Gabriel Martinelli, Football, Mikel Arteta, Chelsea, Transfers

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno