Arsenal are still in talks with Brazilian outfit Cruzeiro over the future of 21-year-old forward Marquinhos. Despite rumours that a deal has been struck, it's been reported that the Gunners are still negotiating an initial loan agreement with an obligation to buy.

Marquinhos joined Arsenal in the summer of 2022 when then-sporting director Edu beat Wolves to the signature of Sao Paulo's highly-rated teenager in a £3million deal. However, despite his potential, Marquinhos hasn't quite hit the mark in north London and looks set to return to Brazil following his loan stint at Fluminense.

He's made just six first-team appearances for Arsenal, failing to build on his promising debut where he scored and assisted in a 2-1 Europa League victory over FC Zurich. Marquinhos also had loan spells at Norwich City in the Championship - where he netted just once in 11 games - and French side Nantes.

The young forward has gained valuable experience this season in Brazil, making 36 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice and setting up three goals. It's believed Arsenal are open to bolstering their attacking ranks in the January transfer window, particularly in light of Bukayo Saka's hamstring injury, reports the Mirror.

The financial rewards that Arsenal could gain from selling Marquinhos is likely to represent small change in comparison to the enormous outlays that will be required to sign coveted stars like Matheus Cunha or Alexander Isak. Mikel Arteta seems to be focusing on the current squad, though: "My focus now, honestly, is just about with the squad that we have to be as competitive as we possibly can and we have many, many options to do that, and if something unbelievable is available and the club is willing to do it, we'll have to consider it."

However, if an overseas loan opportunity presents itself, the Gunners may be interested - though there is no sign they will be joining the pursuit of PSG striker Randal Kolo Muani, who will be allowed to leave in January after falling out of favour with the French giants and is set to be offered to a number of clubs.