Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly prepared a bid for an Arsenal player following their victory over the Gunners in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League final. The Ligue 1 champions retained the European title after beating the Premier League side 4-3 on penalties at Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary, on Saturday, May 30.
PSG's Champions League Triumph
Arsenal took the lead in the 6th minute as German international Kai Havertz beat goalkeeper Matvey Safonov. In the 62nd minute, Cristhian Mosquera fouled Khvicha Kvaratskhelia inside the penalty box, with reigning Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele stepping up to convert the penalty, sending the game into extra time. Eberechi Eze missed Arsenal's third spot kick before Gabriel Magalhães missed the decisive penalty, handing PSG their second consecutive UCL win.
Enrique Targets Martinelli for Squad Revamp
Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique is reportedly planning changes to his squad as the French champions look to defend their title ahead of next season. According to TEAMtalk, the Spanish coach has approved a move for Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, who is viewed as an ideal replacement for Bradley Barcola should the French forward depart the Parc des Princes this summer.
PSG are not alone in the race for the Arsenal star. Bayern Munich are also monitoring Martinelli's situation after missing out on Anthony Gordon, who recently completed a move to Barcelona. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid have emerged as another potential destination. With Arsenal reportedly interested in Julian Alvarez, speculation has grown over the possibility of a swap deal involving Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus moving to the Spanish capital, although no formal discussions have been confirmed.
Martinelli's Impact at Arsenal
Since arriving from Brazilian side Ituano in 2019, Martinelli has become a key figure at the Emirates Stadium and is currently among the club's longest-serving first-team members. The Brazil international made 53 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists, per Sofascore. His contributions helped Arsenal secure the Premier League title and reach the UEFA Champions League final for the first time in two decades.
Although he started on the bench in the Champions League final, Martinelli was introduced in the closing stages, replacing Leandro Trossard in the 83rd minute. His consistent performances have also earned him a place in Brazil's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Under head coach Carlo Ancelotti, the Selecao will face Morocco, Scotland and Haiti in the group stage as they pursue a record-extending sixth world title.
Nichols' Emotional Farewell
Legit.ng earlier reported that Arsenal star Josh Nichols has announced his departure from the north London club after 10 years. The former academy star described the club as his second family, which gave him great memories over the years.
