Arsenal winger set to return to Brazil to join Copa Libertadores champions

Posted Saturday, February 10, 2024 by Caughtoffside.com

Arsenal winger, Marquinhos, who was previously compared to the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, now looks set to return to his homeland of Brazil.

Arsenal initially resisted adding a purchase clause to Marquinhos’ Fluminense contract, but they eventually relented after persuasion from the player’s representatives. According to HITC Football, two-and-a-half years after Arsenal secured Marquinhos in a £3 million deal from Sao Paulo, the Brazilian Under 23 international is set to return home.

Marquinhos has reached an agreement with Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense. Initially opposed to including an option-to-buy clause in the 20-year-old’s contract, the club have reportedly reversed their stance after being persuaded by the winger.

The former Wolves and Atletico Madrid target enjoyed a promising start to his career in England, marking his debut with a goal and assist against FC Zurich in the Europa League. However, he has since found it challenging to maintain that momentum, particularly with the emergence of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, who are regarded as two of the brightest forward talents in the world. And two players he was previously compared to.

Marquinhos faced difficulties making an impact during loan spells at Norwich City and Nantes. His time in France was cut short last month, as he made only seven Ligue 1 appearances for Nantes without registering a goal or an assist.