Full Breakdown
Gabriel Martinelli’s Potential Move to Saudi Arabia: Al-Hilal’s Pursuit
8/23/2026, 7:48:41 PM
Transfer Negotiations Overview
Al Hilal of the Saudi Pro League are in active discussions with Arsenal and the 25-year-old Brazil international about a possible transfer. Arsenal have set an asking price of roughly £60 million, and the player is reported to be receptive to the prospect of moving to Riyadh. No formal agreement has been reached, and negotiations remain ongoing.
Background & Context
Martinelli arrived at Arsenal from Brazilian side Ituano in July 2019 for a reported £6 million fee. He quickly became a key contributor, featuring in 53 matches across all competitions during the 2025/26 season as Arsenal secured their first Premier League title since 2003-04 and reached the Champions League final. The club entered the 2026-27 summer window expecting to generate funds through player sales, having already added winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge and seeing Leandro Trossard depart for Besiktas.
Data & Statistics
- Contract: Runs until June 30, 2027, with Arsenal holding an option to extend for an additional year. [Cryptobriefing]
- Career totals for Arsenal: 278 first-team appearances, 62 goals and 36 assists. [NYTimes]
- 2025/26 Premier League output: 30 appearances, 1 goal, 4 assists. [K47]
- Market offers: On August 12, The Athletic reported a €45 million (?£38.4 million) bid from Galatasaray, which Martinelli’s camp rejected. [NYTimes]
Official Statements & Responses
Arsenal have indicated willingness to consider a sale if an “attractive” offer meets their valuation, but they are not actively forcing the winger out. The club’s position reflects the desire to reinvest the proceeds, as highlighted by the recent signing of Tzolis and the broader squad reshaping under manager Mikel Arteta. Martinelli’s representatives previously declined the Galatasaray proposal, yet sources say the Brazil international is now “open” to a move to Al Hilal.
Criticism & Opposition
Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has publicly questioned the club’s handling of Martinelli’s situation, arguing that the player deserves greater respect after seven years of service. Wright’s remarks underscore growing fan concern over the winger’s exclusion from the matchday squads for both the Community Shield win over Manchester City and the opening Premier League victory against Coventry City.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact stage of Al Hilal’s interest. Some reports describe “formal talks” and scheduled meetings at the Emirates Stadium, while others note that the Saudi club has only identified Martinelli as a target without yet submitting a concrete bid. No official offer matching Arsenal’s £60 million valuation has been confirmed, leaving the ultimate outcome uncertain.
What’s Next
Negotiations are slated to continue into the final weeks of the summer transfer window, with a meeting between the clubs reportedly arranged for “next week.” Should Al Hilal present a formal proposal that satisfies Arsenal’s price and the player’s personal terms, the transfer could materialise before the window closes. Otherwise, Martinelli remains under contract with Arsenal until 2027, and the club may explore alternative options for the winger’s future.
