For more than 12 months the Nigerian forward has been linked with a move to the North Loindon club without any real backing to the claims.

But now the United No.9 has spoken out and revealed his desire to play for the Gunners.

Speaking to The Sun newspaper, 23-year-old Martins said: "Arsenal is a big club that everyone wants to play for.

"I am thrilled and it will be nice to play for such a team.

"But, now that I am a Newcastle player, there is nothing much to say.

"If it is true, both clubs would have to reach an agreement.

"Is Arsenal a good club? Yes. Would I love to play there? Probably, if Newcastle are ready to listen to them.

"But if Newcastle says no then it'll be no."

It is believed Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger could make a move for the former Inter Milan man should Togo international Emmanuel Adebayor finally head for Barcelona.

Martins has a £13m buy-out clause in his contract but has always insisted he will not ask for a transfer and is happy at St James's Park.

Martins added: "I am not saying I want to go but, if anything happens, that's football."