EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal prepare to let Marquinhos leave this window

Steve Kay

• Updated: 31 Jan 2024 21:39 GMT
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Arsenal are willing to part ways with Brazilian winger Marquinhos this window, FootballTransfers has been told.

Sources within the club suggest that while a sale is not off the table, a loan move seems more plausible. The decision to consider Marquinhos’ exit is fueled by the desire to find him regular playing time. At present, the 20-year-old faces stiff competition, with Bukayo Saka playing in the same position.

During the first half of the season, Marquinhos was loaned out to Nantes in Ligue 1, where he gained valuable experience. However, now he is back at Arsenal, there is a need to move him on again.

While many at the club still believe in Marquinhos' potential, the current crop of players means that it will be hard for him to secure consistent game time, something the youngster needs.

Sources inform us that a loan move appears to be the more likely scenario, with Corinthians currently monitoring the situation closely, we are told. Those close to the player believe that heading back to Brazil could be the ideal move for his future development.

The Brazilian transfer window remains open until March 7, offering a potential avenue for a move even past tomorrow’s deadline. This aligns with Marquinhos' current participation in the Brazil Under-23s Conmebol pre-Olympics Tournament.

When did Marquinhos join Arsenal?

Marquinhos joined Arsenal in 2022, however, complications arose as Wolves contemplated legal action against both Marquinhos and Sao Paulo - the side believed that he had entered into a pre-contract agreement with them before heading to Arsenal.

Last season, he was on loan at Norwich City. Marquinhos was recalled from his loan at Nantes on January 12.