Thriving Arsenal ace reveals Man Utd blundered four transfer chances – ‘They never wanted me’

The rapid rise of Gabriel Martinelli could have been to Man Utd’s benefit instead of Arsenal following the Brazilian’s latest revelations.

The forward, 20, has looked electric at times this season with his previous injury issues now firmly resigned to the history books. Martinelli has quickly established himself in Mikel Arteta’s front line, operating primarily from the left in the three behind Alexandre Lacazette.

The Brazilian bagged four goals and two assists during a six-game run in November and December that showed a glimpse of what could be to come on a more regular basis in the future.

Indeed, his performances have been of such a level this season that Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has taken note.

However, when speaking to the Athletic (via Goal), Martinelli revealed his career in England could’ve very easily been played out at Old Trafford.

Martinelli revealed he had four separate trials with Man Utd during his teenage years. However, their loss ultimately became Arsenal’s gain after the Red Devils never showed a willingness to sign him.

Instead, the Gunners acted fast in 2019 when snapping up the forward from Brazilian side Ituano for just £6m.

“I actually had four different trials at United when I was 13, 14, 15 and 16,” Martinelli told the Athletic.

“This was in Manchester at the club’s training base, where I played in the same age group as Mason Greenwood and Brandon Williams and I met first-team players, like Zlatan [Ibrahimovic], Paul Pogba, Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra.

“There was never a moment, though, when they said they wanted me [to sign] there. But it gave me a taste and made the adaptation a little easier because I had experienced football in England.

“Even after those trials, I always believed in