Gabriel Martinelli in line for dream shirt number change and new role at Arsenal

Gabriel Martinelli could well find himself in the right place at the right time to take his Arsenal career to the next level this season.

The Brazilian enjoyed a remarkable start to life in the Gunners' first team before a number of injury issues stalled his impressive development.

But after shaking off his fitness problems, the 20-year-old is now seemingly firing on all cylinders again, which is welcome news for boss Mikel Arteta.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's departure and Arsenal's impending striker exodus have shone a spotlight on Arteta's failure to bring in any new additions for his frontline over January.

Yet with Martinelli drawing plaudits for his recent performances - including Jurgen Klopp's "outstanding" verdict - it could now be time for the young striker to finally fulfil his Arsenal ambition.

For all the criticism aimed at Aubameyang, the former Arsenal skipper was well-liked and appreciated among the younger strike talents in the squad, who benefited from his experience and advice in the dressing room.

But that didn't stop Martinelli from targeting the shirt on his old captain's back.

Speaking last February, Martinelli told ESPN Brazil: "Of course, Auba is an incredible player. Not just a player, an incredible person.

"It's a pleasure to have him in the team. He's a guy who plays in my position. I can look at him every day and try to learn as much as possible.

"I certainly hope to be playing in the near future.

"And follow in his footsteps, he's captain of the team, wearing shirt 14, which is a symbol of the club. I hope to have a bright future ahead at Arsenal."

There should be little stopping Martinelli from swapping his current no.35 for the jersey made famous by Thierry Henry.

Arsenal were happy to