Al Hilal Chases Martinelli as Arsenal Face Key Decisions
Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli has emerged as a surprise transfer target for Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, with talks ongoing over a proposed move. According to The Athletic, Al Hilal are pursuing a deal for the 25-year-old Brazil international, and Arsenal are seeking a fee in the region of £60 million. While no agreement has been reached, Martinelli is reportedly open to the possibility, though he is not pushing to leave.
Martinelli was notably absent from Mikel Arteta's matchday squad for both the Community Shield win over Manchester City and the Premier League opener against Coventry City, fueling speculation about his future. The Gunners are open to selling the winger if an attractive offer arrives, as player trading has become a necessary part of their summer strategy.
The Context: Arsenal's Summer Spending and Outgoings
Arsenal have already been active this summer, selling Leandro Trossard to Besiktas for €20 million and Christian Norgaard to Everton for £7 million. They have also signed winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge and agreed a £51m deal for Ezri Konsa, as reported on this site. However, more departures are expected before the window closes, and Martinelli could be the highest-profile exit.
The club's interest in Vinicius Junior earlier this summer, before he signed a new contract with Real Madrid, signals their ambition to refresh their attacking options. Martinelli, who joined Arsenal in 2019 and has made 278 appearances, scored 62 goals, and was part of the title-winning squad last season, would leave a significant void if he departs.
Meanwhile, the rumor mill has linked Arsenal with a shock move for Atlético Madrid's Julián Alvarez. As reported by The Guardian, boos directed at the Argentina forward during Atlético's draw with Villarreal have seemingly convinced him to consider joining Arsenal. The Gunners are said to have "plenty of cash to splash," and with Barcelona lacking funds, Arsenal could be favorites to land the former Manchester City star.
The Bigger Picture: A Window of Change at the Emirates
Arsenal's stance on Martinelli reflects a broader trend in this transfer window: the need to balance financial sustainability with on-pitch success. After a historic Premier League title win and a Champions League final appearance, the club is not immune to the pressures of player trading. The potential sale of Martinelli would raise significant funds, which could be reinvested in targets like Alvarez.
The interest from Al Hilal also underscores the growing influence of the Saudi Pro League, which continues to lure top European talent with lucrative contracts. Martinelli would join former West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville in Al Hilal's new-look forward line, adding another high-profile name to the league's expanding roster.
For Arsenal, the coming days will be crucial. The club must decide whether to cash in on Martinelli or keep him as part of a squad aiming to defend their title and go one step further in Europe. With the transfer window closing soon, fans can expect more drama as Arteta and the board finalize their plans.
For more on Arsenal's summer activities, check out our piece on the Arsenal Women's Summer Rebuild and the Arsenal agree £51m Ezri Konsa deal.
This article is based on reports from The Athletic, The Guardian, and BBC Sport as of August 24, 2026.
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