Arsenal set asking price as fresh club enters race for star forward

Al-Sadd are reportedly monitoring Gabriel Martinelli’s situation as uncertainty continues over the Arsenal winger’s future in the closing stages of the transfer window.

According to transfer journalist Matteo Moretto, the Qatari club are closely following developments surrounding Martinelli, with Arsenal valuing the Brazil international at more than €50 million (£43m).

There is no indication yet that Al-Sadd have submitted an offer, but their interest adds another possible destination for the 25-year-old after approaches from elsewhere this summer.

Galatasaray recently made a €45m (£38.4m) bid for Martinelli, but the proposal fell short of Arsenal’s valuation.

Martinelli is also understood to have rejected the possibility of joining the Turkish champions because he would prefer to remain at Arsenal rather than move to the Super Lig.

That stance could represent an obvious obstacle for Al-Sadd if their monitoring eventually develops into a formal approach, particularly with the forward seemingly reluctant to leave top-level European football.

Martinelli’s position at Arsenal has nevertheless become increasingly uncertain following the club’s decision to strengthen the left side of their attack this summer.

Christos Tzolis arrived to provide fresh competition on that flank and impressed during pre-season before registering two assists in Sunday’s 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City.

Martinelli was notably absent from the squad for that match, further increasing speculation that Arsenal could sanction his departure before the transfer deadline.

The Brazilian’s existing contract runs until 2027, although Arsenal retain an option to extend the agreement by another season, leaving the club with some protection over his transfer value.

Martinelli endured an inconsistent Premier League campaign last season but remained productive in other competitions, particularly during Arsenal’s run in Europe.

He also remains a valuable asset after joining Arsenal from Ituano for approximately £6m in 2019 and developing into an established Brazil international.

The winger has previously indicated a preference to remain in north London, meaning Arsenal’s willingness to consider suitable proposals does not necessarily guarantee a transfer.

Mikel Arteta also played down speculation surrounding potential departures after the Community Shield, insisting that Martinelli remains an important member of the squad.

However, Al-Sadd’s emergence provides Arsenal with another potential avenue should the club ultimately decide to cash in.

With Arsenal reportedly seeking more than €50m, the financial strength of the Qatari club could make their interest particularly noteworthy if they receive encouragement from Martinelli’s camp.

For now, Al-Sadd are monitoring rather than bidding, while Martinelli’s preference over his next move could prove just as important as Arsenal’s valuation in determining whether he leaves the Emirates Stadium.

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