Saudi giants open negotiations for Arsenal’s £60m star as player stance shifts
Al-Hilal are working on a deal to sign Gabriel Martinelli, with the Arsenal winger now reportedly open to a move to the Saudi Pro League.
The Saudi club are pursuing an agreement with Arsenal while also holding discussions with the Brazil international’s representatives over the proposed transfer, according to The Athletic.
Arsenal are understood to value Martinelli at around £60 million, although no agreement has yet been reached between the clubs and negotiations remain ongoing.
The development represents a significant change in Martinelli’s situation after he previously indicated a preference to remain in European football if he left the Emirates Stadium this summer.
Galatasaray had already tested Arsenal’s resolve with an offer earlier in the window, but Martinelli’s camp subsequently made clear that the 25-year-old was not interested in moving to Turkey.
Al-Hilal’s approach appears to have received a different response, with Martinelli now open to considering the opportunity as discussions continue.
His future has become increasingly uncertain after he was omitted from Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s squad for both competitive matches at the beginning of the campaign.
Martinelli was absent as Arsenal dismantled Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield and was again left out when the champions defeated Coventry City by the same scoreline in their Premier League opener on Friday.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has since questioned the handling of the Brazilian’s situation, arguing that Martinelli deserves greater respect after his contribution during seven years in north London.
The arrival of Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge has also increased competition on the left wing, while Arsenal entered the summer prepared to generate funds through player sales as they reshape Arteta’s title-winning squad.
Martinelli nevertheless remains an established member of the group that finally ended Arsenal’s 22-year wait for the Premier League title last season.
He made 53 appearances across all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign and also helped Arsenal reach the Champions League final.
The winger joined Arsenal from Brazilian club Ituano in 2019 as a teenager and has since accumulated 278 first-team appearances and 62 goals.
His contract expires in 2027, although Arsenal retain an option to extend it for another year, leaving the club in a relatively strong negotiating position.
Al-Hilal had already identified Martinelli among their attacking targets earlier this week as they sought another winger despite signing Crysencio Summerville this summer.
Arsenal are not actively forcing Martinelli out, but they are prepared to sanction his departure for an acceptable offer.
With the player now willing to consider Al-Hilal, what initially appeared to be tentative Saudi interest has developed into a transfer situation that could accelerate before the window closes.
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