Arsenal have confirmed the permanent transfer of Brazilian winger Marquinhos to Cruzeiro, ending his three-year stint with the Premier League club.
The 22-year-old joined the Gunners from São Paulo in June 2022 but made only six first-team appearances. During his time in North London, he had loan spells at Fluminense, Norwich City, Nantes, and most recently Cruzeiro.
“Everyone at Arsenal would like to thank Marquinhos for his contribution to the club and wish him all the best for the future,” the club stated on their official website.
In a separate development, Barcelona announced they have terminated French defender Clément Lenglet’s contract by mutual agreement. The 29-year-old center-back joined Barça from Sevilla in 2018 and made 160 appearances, scoring seven goals.
“FC Barcelona and Clément Lenglet have reached an agreement to terminate the player’s contract,” the Catalan club said in a statement. “The club wishes him every success in his future career.”
Lenglet’s departure comes as Barcelona continue restructuring their squad under manager Hansi Flick. The French international had spent the last two seasons on loan at Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa before returning to Camp Nou this summer.
Marquinhos’ permanent move to Cruzeiro provides clarity for both player and club, while Lenglet now becomes a free agent able to negotiate with any club.
Wuzup Nigeria reports that these moves represent ongoing squad adjustments as European clubs prepare for the 2025/26 season. Arsenal are expected to remain active in the transfer market as Mikel Arteta reshapes his squad, while Barcelona’s financial situation continues forcing difficult decisions.
Football analysts suggest both transfers make financial sense for the clubs involved, allowing Arsenal to recoup some investment on a fringe player and Barcelona to remove a high wage from their books.
