Arteta picks next signing: Arsenal boss 'blown away' by Martinelli replacement

Cameron Smith
Cameron Smith
  • Updated: 1 Dec 2025 16:27 GMT
  • 6 min read
Gabriel Martinelli, Arsenal
© IMAGO

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has reportedly been “blown away” by Villarreal winger Alberto Moleiro and views him as the perfect candidate to bolster his squad at the Emirates Stadium.

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The Gunners spent a whopping €293.5 million on new signings during the 2025 summer transfer window, however they remain eager to land further reinforcements next year and Moleiro has been identified as their latest target.

Current ETV
Player image Alberto Moleiro
Alberto Moleiro

F, M (L)

Villarreal logo

Villarreal

Alberto Moleiro
Alberto Moleiro

F, M (L)

Villarreal

Villarreal

€26.3M

ETV Range

€23.6M - €28.9M

That is according to Spanish publication Fichajes, who claim that Arteta has earmarked Moleiro as the “perfect candidate” to strengthen his Arsenal squad.

The Spaniard, 22, has scored six goals and provided two assists in 14 La Liga appearances so far this season and although he is yet to register a goal contribution in five Champions League matches, Arsenal have reportedly added him to their transfer wishlist.

The left winger joined Villarreal from Las Palmas for €16m in July and his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) has already risen to over €26m following a fantastic start to life with Marcelino’s side.

Villarreal are reportedly aware of growing interest in the 22-year-old, but they are eager to retain his services until at least next summer before considering a sale.

Arsenal to sign Alberto Moleiro?

News of Arsenal’s interest in Moleiro comes amid rumours that Gabriel Martinelli could be one of three high-profile players to leave the Emirates Stadium next year, alongside Ben White and compatriot Gabriel Jesus.

The Brazil winger has been a key figure for the Gunners since his arrival from Ituano in 2019, however clubs in Saudi Arabia have been linked with a move in recent weeks, most notably Al-Nassr, and an exit could reportedly be on the cards.

Multiple reports have speculated that Arsenal are keen to sign another winger in 2026 and Moleiro is the club’s latest transfer target following interest in Antoine Semenyo, Rodrygo and Nico Williams.

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