Story perspectives

Al Hilal in talks to sign Arsenal’s Martinelli for £60m

8/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Al Hilal are negotiating to sign Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli for about £60 million.
No agreement exists yet as Al Hilal discuss terms with Arsenal and Martinelli’s representatives.
Martinelli, 25, is open to a Saudi move after rejecting Galatasaray’s €45 million bid.
Arsenal omitted Martinelli from the Community Shield win and the Premier League opener.

History

Historical Context

In 2009 Saudi businessman Sulaiman Al-Fahim completed a takeover of Portsmouth, marking one of the first Gulf purchases of a Premier League club. The pattern expanded when the Public Investment Fund secured Newcastle United for about £300 million in October 2021, backed by a pledged $30 billion UK investment. Today Al Hilal’s pursuit of Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli shows Saudi clubs now targeting elite talent, echoing those early acquisitions.

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Story summary

Al Hilal are negotiating to sign Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli for about £60 million.
No agreement exists yet as Al Hilal discuss terms with Arsenal and Martinelli’s representatives.
Martinelli, 25, is open to a Saudi move after rejecting Galatasaray’s €45 million bid.
Arsenal omitted Martinelli from the Community Shield win and the Premier League opener.

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