With the January transfer window firmly shut, Arsenal faces a ticking time bomb in the form of three crucial contract negotiations that could define their future dominance. While the Gunners didn’t splash the cash this winter—their only notable move being Ethan Nwaneri’s loan to Marseille—their focus must now shift to securing the long-term futures of key players. But here’s where it gets controversial: should Arsenal prioritize extending deals for stars like Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard, or risk losing them on the cheap? Let’s dive in.
Gabriel Jesus: Once the spearhead of Mikel Arteta’s attack, Jesus’ journey at Arsenal has been marred by injury, most notably his ACL rupture. Despite making just 70 appearances since his 2022 move from Manchester City, the 28-year-old Brazilian still holds immense potential. And this is the part most people miss: at his age, strikers often blend peak physical ability with smarter positional play. With Viktor Gyokeres now leading the line, Jesus must fight for his place, but a fully fit Jesus could be the difference-maker in Arsenal’s Premier League and Champions League ambitions. His contract expires in June 2027, leaving Arsenal with a critical decision: renew or risk losing him to a rival for a bargain.
Gabriel Martinelli: The unsung hero of Arsenal’s renaissance, Martinelli has been a cornerstone since joining in 2019, racking up 179 appearances and 41 goals. At just 24, the Brazilian winger is far from his peak yet already indispensable to Arteta’s system. His contract also ends in 2027, and locking him down should be a no-brainer. But here’s the twist: his willingness to embrace a rotational role makes him even more valuable, yet Arsenal must act fast to avoid a bidding war.
Leandro Trossard: Signed for a mere £27 million from Brighton, Trossard has been a steal, contributing 26 goals in 112 appearances. His versatility—seamlessly rotating with Martinelli, Noni Madueke, and Bukayo Saka—is a testament to Arsenal’s squad depth. However, at 31, his contract renewal is tricky. Here’s the controversial take: while age is a concern, extending his deal ensures Arsenal doesn’t lose him for free or cheaply, especially in an era where Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) limit transfer flexibility.
The Bigger Picture: Arsenal’s current squad is arguably the strongest in England and Europe, but their dominance hinges on these contract decisions. So, here’s the question for you: Should Arsenal prioritize youth and long-term potential with Martinelli, take a gamble on Jesus’ fitness, or secure Trossard’s versatility despite his age? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
