Arsenal set to beat 17 clubs to signature of teenage Brazilian striker Gabriel Martinelli if Brexit doesn’t wreck deal
The Gunners are leading the chase for the highly-rated forward but could struggle to get him into the country if the UK leaves the European Union this month
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ARSENAL look set to land Brazilian teenage sensation Gabriel Martinelli - if Brexit doesn't wreck the deal.
The Gunners looked to have beaten a posse of clubs for the 17-year-old Ituano striker who is rated as one the best young prospects in South America, according to .
And despite huge interest from Brazil’s top clubs, Martinelli will be heading for the Emirates, despite the youngster having trials at Manchester United and Barcelona two years ago.
Martinelli has scored three goals in nine matches in this year's Paulista Championship and also scored four in 17 games in the Copa Paulista.
Martinelli's agent, Marcos Casseb, has revealed he is planning for his client to leave South America.
He said: "To be honest we expected that to happen.
“His evolution since last year is very fast, he is above average.
The initial planning is for him to go straight to Europe."
As it stands, Martinelli would struggle to qualify for a work permit under current UK legislation as he has no international experience.
But the plan is to obtain an Italian passport due to family heritage, making him an EU citizen.
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However, if the UK leaves the European Union on March 29, then British clubs would no longer be exempt from Fifa rules banning the transfer of players under 18 years old.
But if Prime Minister Theresa May manages to delay Brexit, then the status quo will remain allowing free movement of players within the EU.
And if the deal goes through, Martinelli could follow in the footsteps of fellow countryman Gilberto Silva and Edu by turning out for the Premier League side.