Arsenal: £90k-a-week star now in 'unthinkable' situation at Emirates

Arsenal do not want to ‘kill’ their chances of finishing above Chelsea in the Premier League and, as a result, it is ‘unthinkable’ that the Emirates Stadium hierarchy will sanction Gabriel Martinelli’s departure for their London rivals, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Gunners have made an impressive start to the campaign, winning nine of their opening 10 fixtures in all competitions, and Martinelli has played a key role.

According to the Daily Mail, Martinelli has been gaining attention from some of Arsenal’s top four rivals in recent months.

The report suggests Chelsea, who appointed Graham Potter as their new head coach last month, are among the clubs believed to be monitoring the 21-year-old.

But Arsenal, who are currently top of the Premier League table and eight points clear of their neighbours, are attempting to tie Martinelli down to a new long-term contract.

It is understood that the north Londoners are keen to reward the winger with improved terms for the progress he has shown under boss Mikel Arteta.

Martinelli’s current agreement – which is worth £90,000-per-week – is due to expire in the summer of 2024, although there is an option for Arsenal to extend his stay by 12 months.

Jones believes Arsenal would be making a huge mistake if they allowed Chelsea to take Martinelli off their hands in the not-too-distant future.

The journalist feels sanctioning the South American’s move to Stamford Bridge during the January transfer window could leave the Gunners’ chances of finishing above their London rivals in peril.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “I think it’s unthinkable that you could let Martinelli join Chelsea anytime soon.

“For the first time in about six or seven years, Arsenal have an opportunity to