ARSENAL have set their sights on ex-Manchester United trialist Gabriel Martinelli, according to reports.
The Gunners are also joined by Crystal Palace and Watford, who have all been monitoring the developments of the 17-year-old striker, who plays for Brazilian State League side Ituano.
According to HLTCO Arsenal lead the race to sign the Brazilian ace, as Martinelli’s goal-to-game ratio will demand a high transfer fee.
Top Brazilian clubs are also thought to be after the striker, but again financial restraints favour the Premier League admirers.
Martinelli, who is close to obtaining an Italian passport, is known in England having had trials at Manchester United in 2017 under Jose Mourinho.
The highly-rated wonderkid was also given a cameo appearance for the Under-18s on in a 2-0 win over Lincoln City in July two years ago.
Despite not signing on at Old Trafford, scouts have since again monitored him closely.
Barcelona also flew him over to train with the club.
Martinelli has scored three goals in nine matches in this year’s Paulista Championship and also scored four in 17 games in the Copa Paulista.
Arsenal boss Unai Emery wants to overhaul his squad with at least FIVE new signings this summer.