Gabriel Martinelli Named as Target for European Giants Moments after Arsenal Cameo

Gabriel Martinelli has been linked with a move to one of Europe's biggest clubs just moments after his impressive Arsenal cameo.

The Brazilian was introduced against Athletic Club with 71 minutes on the clock, but he wasted no time, breaking the deadlock just 36 seconds after coming on.

With three minutes left to play he combined with fellow substitute Leandro Trossard to double Arsenal's advantage and ensure they made a winning start to their Champions League campaign.

Despite an impressive cameo on Tuesday night, Martinelli's future had been a topic of discussion over the summer. There were suggestions that Arsenal needed to upgrade in his position if they were to win silverware.

According to The Independent, Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain were prepared to spend a fortune to bring in Martinelli.

Gabriel Martinelli celebrates against Athletic Club. Image: Soccrates Images / Contributor via Getty

However, no move materialised and the 24-year-old remains part of Arteta's plans at Arsenal. Speaking after the win, Arteta was positive on the impact of his game-winning substitutes.

He said: “In his eyes, I could see that he was ready, Leo as well. Every time you name the line-up, you are disappointing a lot of players.

“I know how much they want to play this competition and what it means to them.”

“That’s why I really enjoy every single day working with them and being part of this team, because the way they look after each other is genuine, and they really want the best for each other.

"And they recognise someone that works every single day in a manner that Gabby does. And you can go through struggles or through moments, and recognising that and having that capacity to connect with him, I think it would mean a lot to him."

Gabriel Martinelli scores against Athletic Club. Image: David Price / Contributor via Getty

Martinelli has been trusted in Arsenal's toughest league games so far this season, starting away to Manchester United and Liverpool.

But he struggled to make an impact in either game, and he failed to test Dominik Szoboszlai, who was playing out of position at right back. In Arsenal's 5-0 demolition of Leeds United, Arteta preferred Noni Madueke on the left, with Bukayo Saka on the right.

After Saka's injury, Madueke shifted to the right wing, while new signing Eberechi Eze stepped into the left-sided role. The new signing from Crystal Palace registered his first assist of the season on Saturday, linking up with Viktor Gyokeres in a 3-0 win.

He kept his starting spot for the trip to the Basque country, but it was Eze who made way for Martinelli.

Martinelli faces genuine competition for minutes this season, following the signings of Madueke and Eze.

But with Arsenal competing in four competitions and Arteta making use of his bench, there will be no shortage of opportunities for the Brazilian.