Arsenal reportedly turned down proposals from Barcelona to swap Gabriel Martinelli for two different players, as Mikel Arteta considered the forward as ‘untouchable.’
Barcelona had pursued Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao but were rejected by the winger. Despite this, Barcelona continued to focus on Martinelli as a potential alternative option.
Facing financial constraints, Barcelona proposed a swap deal involving two players. Ferran Torres, acquired from Manchester City for £45 million in January 2022, was previously considered a target for Arteta and expressed enthusiasm about working under the Spanish manager.
Despite this, when Torres was presented to Arsenal in the summer transfer window, the club promptly rejected the opportunity due to the assessment that he did not meet the necessary standard to bolster the team.
Instead, Arsenal showed interest in former Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen as Arteta aimed to strengthen the defensive line.
The manager considered the Denmark international to be a valuable addition because of his versatility and experience.
Arsenal showed interest in Christensen, whose contract was valid until 2026, but they rejected the idea of a swap deal involving Martinelli.
Arteta and the club hierarchy maintained their steadfast confidence in the Brazilian player, considering him ‘untouchable’ despite his erratic performance.
