Al Hilal Pursue Gabriel Martinelli as Arsenal Talks Continue
Al Hilal have stepped up their pursuit of Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, with talks reportedly taking place between the Saudi Pro League club, Arsenal and the Brazilian forward over a potential transfer.
According to the latest reports, no agreement has yet been reached, but negotiations are ongoing as Al Hilal explore a deal for the 25-year-old. Arsenal are understood to value Martinelli at around £60 million, setting the stage for a potentially significant transfer before the summer window closes. (OneFootball)
The development represents a major twist in Martinelli’s uncertain future at Arsenal. The Brazilian has reportedly fallen down the pecking order in Mikel Arteta’s squad, with his limited involvement at the beginning of the new campaign increasing speculation that he could leave the Emirates Stadium.
Martinelli Open to Al Hilal Move
One of the biggest developments in the story is Martinelli’s reported change of stance regarding a move away from European football.
The winger previously rejected a proposed move to Turkish giants Galatasaray, with reports indicating that the Turkish club had been prepared to offer approximately £38.4 million for his services. Martinelli is now reportedly open to the possibility of joining Al Hilal, although a final decision has not been made. (Talksport)
That change could prove crucial in negotiations. While Martinelli has previously been linked with clubs in Europe, Al Hilal’s interest gives Arsenal another potential route to a substantial transfer fee.
Why Arsenal Could Sell Martinelli
Martinelli has been an important player for Arsenal since arriving from Ituano in 2019. The Brazilian has developed into a regular Premier League attacker and has contributed goals, assists and considerable pace from the left wing.
However, competition for attacking positions has intensified. Arsenal’s recruitment has created greater depth in the forward areas, while reports suggest Martinelli’s position in Arteta’s preferred lineup has become less secure.
The situation has reportedly been reflected in his involvement at the start of the 2026/27 campaign. TalkSPORT reports that Martinelli was left out of Arsenal’s matchday squad for both the Community Shield and the club’s opening Premier League fixture, adding further fuel to speculation over his future. (Talksport)
Arsenal could therefore view a £60m sale as an opportunity to generate significant funds while reshaping their attacking options.
Martinelli’s Recent Numbers
Martinelli’s most recent Premier League campaign was not among his most productive statistically. According to available 2025/26 Premier League data, he made 30 appearances, scoring once and registering four assists. (StatMuse)
Those numbers help explain why Arsenal may be willing to consider a major offer, despite Martinelli’s previous importance to the team.
The Brazilian remains a player with significant upside, however. Arsenal’s official profile notes that he reached double figures for goals in the 2024/25 season and also provided six assists. (Arsenal)
At 25, Martinelli still has several years of peak football ahead of him, which makes Arsenal’s reported £60m valuation understandable.
Al Hilal Searching for More Attacking Quality
Al Hilal’s interest comes as the Saudi club continues to strengthen its attacking options. The club is reportedly looking for a winger and has considered Martinelli among its targets. (Goal)
A move to Saudi Arabia would represent a major new chapter in Martinelli’s career. The Brazilian has spent his senior career in England with Arsenal, establishing himself as a recognizable Premier League attacker and earning international recognition with Brazil.
For Al Hilal, meanwhile, signing a player of Martinelli’s age and profile would represent another statement of intent in the increasingly competitive Saudi Pro League.
No Agreement Yet
Despite the growing speculation, Arsenal supporters should not interpret the latest reports as confirmation that Martinelli is leaving the club.
The key point is that negotiations are ongoing and no agreement has been reached. Arsenal reportedly want approximately £60m, while Al Hilal must still reach an acceptable financial package with the Gunners and convince the player to complete the move. (Threads)
There are also reports that Martinelli has attracted interest from other clubs, meaning the situation could change rapidly before the transfer window closes.
For now, Arsenal face a major decision. Keeping Martinelli would provide Arteta with another experienced attacking option, while selling him for around £60m could provide funds for further squad investment.
With talks continuing between the clubs and the player, Gabriel Martinelli’s Arsenal future has become one of the major transfer stories to watch. A breakthrough could potentially see the Brazilian make a sensational move to Al Hilal, but until an agreement is reached, his next destination remains uncertain.
Transfer status: Talks ongoing
Reported asking price: Around £60 million
Interested club: Al Hilal
Current club: Arsenal
Player: Gabriel Martinelli
Age: 25
Nationality: Brazilian
All eyes will now be on the next stage of negotiations as Al Hilal attempt to turn their interest in Martinelli into one of the biggest transfers of Arsenal’s summer window.
