Frank Christian
Arsenal has announced that Brazilian winger Marquinhos has officially transferred to Cruzeiro, a move that will net the Gunners £2.5 million ($3.3 million) while retaining the potential for future financial gain from the player.
The 22-year-old initially joined the Brazilian Serie A club on loan at the beginning of 2025, with his original contract set to expire in December. The agreement included an option to purchase, making a permanent transfer possible if both clubs reached an accord.
Although Cruzeiro was initially reluctant to activate the purchase option, mainly due to changes in management, further discussions between the clubs facilitated the completion of the transfer.
The main issue reportedly revolved around the payment currency, as Cruzeiro preferred US dollars instead of euros because of more favorable exchange rates. Once this was resolved, the transfer was able to proceed.
Marquinhos has signed with Cruzeiro until 2028 and will don the number 7 jersey, after wearing number 17 during his loan period. He was briefly left out of matchday considerations as negotiations were ongoing but rejoined the squad on June 1.
What are the specifics of the agreement?
For Arsenal, the £2.5 million ($3.3 million) fee is a moderate return on the investment they made when acquiring him from São Paulo in 2022. A sell-on clause has also been included, allowing the Gunners to benefit financially if Cruzeiro sells him for a greater amount in the future.
Marquinhos recorded just six appearances for Arsenal’s senior team, scoring once and providing an assist. Although he had an encouraging start in the Europa League, he faced challenges in cementing his position during subsequent loan spells at Norwich City and Nantes, making his departure from north London increasingly likely.
While his time in England may not have met the early hopes, the Gunners are optimistic that a successful chapter in Brazil could yield future financial benefits.
Furthermore, Arsenal’s main target for a forward this summer continues to be Benjamin Sesko, according to reports from Sporting News.
Discussions have been held with the player’s representatives about personal terms, but no formal proposal has yet been made to his Bundesliga club.
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