Arsenal is in advanced negotiations with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal regarding the transfer of forward Gabriel Martinelli for a fee reported to be at least £50 million. Discussions between the two clubs have intensified in the last 24 hours, indicating a deal may be close.
Martinelli, 25, is reportedly available for transfer this summer, with manager Mikel Arteta apparently not including him in his future plans. The Brazil international joined Arsenal in 2019 from Brazilian club Ituano and has one year remaining on his contract at the Emirates Stadium. Last season, he made 53 appearances across all competitions, scoring 11 goals, as Arsenal secured the Premier League title. However, he was not included in the squad for the team's league opener on Friday.
Arteta has communicated his position to Martinelli and explained the reasons behind his exclusion from recent squads. The player has previously turned down a move to Galatasaray. If a final agreement is reached between the clubs, the decision to move to the Saudi Pro League will rest with Martinelli. Reports suggest Al-Hilal is offering a significantly higher wage package than his current reported £180,000-per-week deal at Arsenal.
Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright expressed discomfort with how Martinelli is currently being treated, stating that while a move might be necessary, it should also suit the player's preferences.
Al-Hilal's interest in Martinelli is concurrent with their pursuit of Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins. Watkins was absent from Aston Villa's opening weekend match, and manager Unai Emery declined to guarantee the player's long-term commitment to the club.