Arsenal in talks with Al Hilal over £60m Gabriel Martinelli transfer
Arsenal are in negotiations with Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal over the potential £60m sale of winger Gabriel Martinelli following his omission from Mikel Arteta’s recent squads.
The Brazil international has slipped down the pecking order in north London after the summer arrival of Christos Tzolis.
Discussions are ongoing between the Saudi club and the player’s representatives regarding a prospective move.
It is understood the South American is receptive to the idea of relocating to the Middle East.
Out of favour under Arteta
The winger finds himself at a career crossroads after being left out of the matchday squads for both the Community Shield and a recent home victory over Coventry City.
Regular first-team football appears increasingly improbable for the former Ituano forward.
The Gunners are actively seeking further attacking reinforcements, with Julian Alvarez reportedly among their forward targets.
Other European clubs, including Galatasaray and AS Roma, have also expressed interest in securing his services this month.
Wright uncomfortable with treatment
Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has openly criticised how the situation is being managed by the Premier League club.
“With respect to Martinelli and the way he’s being treated at the moment, it really makes me uncomfortable,”
Ian Wright, speaking to Sky Sports
“He always gives 100%, we’re not saying he’s the greatest, but he’s come up with some big moments for Arsenal in big games, and the way he’s being treated at the end here.”
“I know they might want him out and there’s a lot of guys saying it’s time for him to move on, but there’s ways of doing that should suit him as well.”
Contract ticking down
Martinelli currently has 12 months remaining on his existing contract at Emirates Stadium.
While the club possess an option to extend the deal by a further year, triggering that clause is now considered unlikely.
He originally joined the English side in 2019 in a modest £6m transfer from his native Brazil.
Meanwhile, fellow forward Gabriel Jesus is also anticipated to depart as a free agent next summer if a move cannot be secured before January.