Al Hilal Open Talks With Arsenal Over Gabriel Martinelli Transfer

Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal have opened talks with Arsenal over a possible move for Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli, with the 25-year-old reportedly open to joining the Saudi club.

The two clubs are understood to have entered into club-to-club discussions over a potential transfer, with negotiations taking place as Arsenal consider Martinelli’s future before the close of the summer transfer window.

Martinelli has emerged as Al Hilal’s leading option among a shortlist of attacking wingers that has also included Chelsea’s Pedro Neto. The Saudi club had previously considered multiple targets as it sought to strengthen its attack.

Recent reports indicate that Martinelli’s position has changed. The Brazil international had previously preferred to remain in European football, but he is now understood to be open to a move to Al Hilal.

Arsenal are reportedly seeking a fee in the region of £60 million for Martinelli, although no agreement has yet been reached between the clubs. Negotiations remain ongoing, meaning the proposed transfer is not yet close to completion.

The winger’s situation at Arsenal has added to speculation about a departure. Martinelli was left out of the squad for the Community Shield against Manchester City and was also absent from Arsenal’s squad for their Premier League opener against Coventry City.

He has made 278 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 62 goals and providing 36 assists since joining the club from Brazilian side Ituano in 2019.

The potential move would represent a major decision for both Martinelli and Arsenal. At 25, the Brazilian remains in his prime years, while Arsenal could use a significant transfer fee to strengthen their squad before the September 1 deadline.

Al Hilal’s pursuit also comes amid movement involving other wide players. Pedro Neto has previously been linked with the Saudi club, while Juventus winger Francisco Conceição has been mentioned as a possible alternative in the wider transfer market.

For now, however, Martinelli appears to have moved to the front of Al Hilal’s considerations, with talks between the Saudi club and Arsenal continuing.

With the transfer window approaching its final days, negotiations over the player’s valuation and personal terms will determine whether Martinelli leaves north London for Saudi Arabia or remains at Arsenal for another season.