Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli is an option for Galatasaray if they fail to secure Rafael Leao | OneFootball

Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli has emerged as a top alternative for Galatasaray should the Turkish champions fail to land AC Milan star Rafael Leao, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

The Istanbul club have made signing a marquee left-sided attacker a central priority for manager Okan Buruk this summer.

While Galatasaray remain firmly in the race for Leao, negotiations have become increasingly complex due to AC Milan’s strict €50 million valuation.

Martinelli, who is a ‘real threat in front of goal’, has moved to the top of Galatasaray’s shortlist as a high-calibre alternative.

The Brazil international faces an uncertain future in North London, with Arsenal seeking a marquee left winger.

Galatasaray intermediaries have begun preliminary enquiries regarding Martinelli’s willingness to move to Super Lig football.

While Arsenal are not actively pushing the winger out, the club’s hierarchy could be open to substantial offers.

For Galatasaray, convincing a player of Martinelli’s pedigree would represent a major coup. The Turkish champions can offer guaranteed regular minutes, a starring role in their domestic title defence, and Champions League football – factors that could appeal to the Brazilian as he looks to safeguard his place in the national team.

Although securing Leao remains the primary ambition at RAMS Park, the pursuit of Martinelli highlights Galatasaray’s aggressive approach in the summer window.

Should they be priced out of a deal for Leao, the Turkish giants are prepared to redirect their financial resources towards North London and present Arsenal with a formal proposal for Martinelli.