Gabriel Martinelli has handed title-chasing Arsenal a massive boost by signing a new, long-term contract at the Emirates.
The 21-year-old Brazil international has already made 111 appearances for the Gunners and he has been ever-present in Arsenal's thrilling leadership of the Premier League.
Speaking to the club website, sporting director Edu said: “It’s great that Gabi has signed a new contract with us. The foundations of our squad continue to be built on young talent, so it’s great that Gabi has signed a new contract.
"Gabi is still just 21, and a player with big ability and personality. He is an important part of our future and we’re delighted that we have agreed a new contract.”
Manager Mikel Arteta added: “We’re delighted Gabi has signed a new long-term contract. Our supporters see his quality and energy every single time he puts on the shirt and he’s the same every day in training, with his hard work and positive values.
"Gabi is still very young, so we know there’s still much more to come from him and it’s great that we’ll be on this journey together.
"We’re now excited to continue to develop his huge talent and look forward to seeing him perform with Arsenal in the years to come.”
Martinelli, who has scored seven goals this season, adds to the youthful core signed up on long-term contracts by Arteta.
Bukayo Saka, 21, was agreed a four-year deal last year, while William Saliba (21) remains in talks about extending his current deal beyond 2024 and striker Eddie Nketiah (23) signed a five-year contract last summer.
Martinelli had previously made it clear that he wanted to stay in north London.
“We are talking about a contract so let’s see what happens. But of course I want to stay." he said in October.
“I think this is my best season at Arsenal and I am so happy for this moment.
“Everyone can see our hunger and our mentality. We want to win every single game.
“I am so happy to be playing alongside players like Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka.
“You can see the understanding we have together but we have a lot of time to improve. We have great quality and I think we can do more.
“Gabby is a great guy, not just on the pitch but off it as well. He is always trying to help me. He is only 25 but he has a lot of experience and everyone loves him.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to be at a big club like Arsenal with so many good players.
“Of course we dream about winning the title, but we leave all that talk to our fans. We are only thinking about the next game and trying to win again.”
