Martinelli full of praise for Arsenal target Spence

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·24 February 2022

Gabriel Martinelli has named Arsenal transfer target Djed Spence as the toughest opponent he has faced.

Spence lined up for Nottingham Forest in their FA Cup upset over the Gunners at the start of the year.

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Asked to name the toughest individual opponent he has faced, Martinelli told The Athletic:

"Actually the guy from Nottingham Forest, Djed Spence, who I played against in the FA Cup.

"He is very strong, good on the ball, calm and quick. I was surprised; he is a really good player!"

Mikel Arteta reportedly wants to sign 21-year-old Spence, who is on loan from Middlesbrough, when the summer transfer window opens.

Tottenham, Leeds United, Brentford, Southampton and Italian duo Roma and Inter Milan have all been linked with Spence in recent weeks.

Middlesbrough are reportedly demanding at least £10m for Spence's signature.