Arsenal Opens Door for Martinelli Exit Amid Al-Hilal Interest

Arsenal have opened talks with Al-Hilal over the sale of Gabriel Martinelli, with the Brazilian winger now effectively on the market this summer.

Mikel Arteta has informed the 23-year-old that he does not feature in his plans for the new season, clearing the way for a departure just five years after Martinelli arrived in north London from Ituano.

Galatasaray moved first earlier in the window, tabling a £45m offer that Arsenal were prepared to accept. Martinelli, though, rejected the prospect of a move to Istanbul and stalled any agreement, leaving his future unresolved.

That hesitation has given Al-Hilal their chance. The Saudi Pro League side have held talks with Arsenal and made it known they are ready to go beyond Galatasaray’s £45m bid in order to land the Brazil international.

Martinelli has 12 months left on his contract at the Emirates Stadium, a ticking clock that sharpens Arsenal’s need to make a decision now rather than risk losing value later.

Al-Hilal are not limiting their ambition to one Premier League forward either. Their interest in Martinelli runs alongside a push to sign Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, underlining the scale of their latest recruitment drive.

For Arsenal, a player once seen as a cornerstone of the club’s future is now edging towards the exit, with Saudi Arabia offering the clearest route out.