Pulisic on Arsenal's radar as Martinelli exit looms; Barcelona's Raphinha demands prove prohibitive

Arsenal are casting their net toward AC Milan's Christian Pulisic as a potential summer addition, having apparently drawn a line under any hopes of prising Raphinha from Barcelona's clutches.

With Mikel Arteta's side sitting pretty at the top of the Premier League, six points clear of Manchester City, the Gunners hierarchy appear ready to splash the cash once more. The club has already invested over £250m in reinforcements this summer, determined to finally end their three-year spell as runners-up and claim the title.

But the pursuit of fresh attacking talent could soon become urgent. Gabriel Martinelli's future at the club has come under scrutiny, with speculation suggesting the Brazilian winger could be lured away to the Saudi Pro League. Sources close to the player's camp have indicated that representatives are exploring options elsewhere, a situation the Arsenal board is well aware of.

Enter Pulisic. The American, currently plying his trade at Milan, has caught Arteta's attention as a potential replacement for Martinelli's left-wing duties. The former Chelsea man has been in decent form for the Serie A outfit this term, notching eight goals and two assists across 16 league appearances. According to Spanish reports, Arsenal have moved decisively, expressing concrete interest in bringing the 26-year-old back to English football's top tier.

Pulisic himself appears amenable to a move. Contract negotiations at Milan have stalled, leaving the player frustrated with the lack of progress on a new deal. Arsenal, sensing an opening, believe they lead the race for his signature and have 'no intention of ignoring' the opportunity to bolster their attacking arsenal.

The alternative target, Barcelona's Raphinha, now appears financially out of reach. The Catalan club have made their position crystal clear: anyone wanting the Brazilian winger must cough up the full €1billion release clause written into his contract. Arsenal's initial soundings—which included offers of an ambitious project and eye-watering wages—have evidently hit a brick wall.

Former Gunners midfielder Denilson, however, has backed Martinelli to rediscover his best form. Speaking earlier in the season, he expressed confidence that the Brazilian would reclaim a starting berth once the competitive pressure eases. "Martinelli is a high-quality player," Denilson reflected. "There's healthy competition in his position, which is very intense. As a luxury substitute today, I believe he'll soon be among the starting eleven. He's technically gifted and quick. He'll regain his place."

Whether Arsenal's hierarchy shares that optimism remains to be seen.