Arsenal to ward off Real Madrid interest in Gabriel Martinelli with new deal?

Arsenal are reportedly prepared to hand Gabriel Martinelli a new contract in a bid to ward off interest from Real Madrid.

Despite Martinelli remaining part of the first-team squad after his arrival from Ituano, the teenager was expected to play a bit-part role during his opening campaign in England.

However, the 18-year-old has already contributed 10 goals from 11 starts and 10 substitute outings in all competitions, the latest of which came against Chelsea on Tuesday night.

The prospect's progression has allegedly resulted in interest from Real Madrid - a development which the Daily Mail claims has led to movement in the Arsenal boardroom.

The report says that the North Londoners are happy to treble the wages of the attacker in a bid to secure his long-term future.

Martinelli already has four-and-a-half years left on his contract.