Ian Wright insists Arsenal should give Gabriel Martinelli "whatever he wants" when it comes to a new contract, after the winger's impressive start to the season.
The 21-year-old scored and grabbed an assist as the Gunners secured an excellent 3-2 win over Liverpool on Sunday afternoon. It was a superb performance from Mikel Arteta's side as they secured their 10th victory from 11 matches in all competitions.
But it was Martinelli who stole the show as he gave Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez a hard time on Liverpool's right-hand side. The Brazilian caused the former, in particular, plenty of problems during the first-half and netted his fourth goal of the season.
There has been plenty of speculation surrounding Martinelli's future of late, amid the youngster's contract situation at the club. It runs until 2024, although the club have a one-year option.
The Gunners are looking to tie down he, Bukayo Saka and William Saliba to new long-term deals. And club icon Wright believes money should be no object when it comes to Martinelli.
"The way Arsenal went about that game and the way Gabriel Martinelli played… he was doing the work of two men," Wright said on his podcast for The Ringer.
"He was blazing up and down that right side. I’m telling you, he’s the one! With Martinelli, if I’m Arsenal, I’m going in now and offering him whatever he wants."
Where will Arsenal finish this season? Let us know in the comments below!
Arsenal's win over Liverpool saw them return to the top of the league, leapfrogging reigning champions Manchester City in the process. Pep Guardiola's side had moved to the summit with a 4-0 win over Southampton as talisman Erling Haaland struck his 20th of the campaign.
Now there is talk of last season's fifth-placed side mounting a title charge - although Wright feels Arsenal fans should enjoy their success rather than worrying about pushing for the league.
"Mikel is being very calm about it but it’s unbelievable to watch. Arsenal now look ready to launch," Wright added. Everyone is saying it’s only a matter of time before Man City go top… fine, fine. Let’s just enjoy it. The top-four was the goal so make sure you get that.
"I’m very excited because it is a very compelling project at Arsenal. At the moment I’m just very happy… my team is top of the league!"
Arsenal return to Premier League action on Sunday with a trip to Leeds United. Arteta's men were scheduled to face Manchester City next week in a mouthwatering top of the table clash, but will instead take on PSV in Europe, after the game was postponed back in September following the Queen's death.
