Arsenal are holding discussions with Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal over a potential transfer for Gabriel Martinelli. The Brazilian has slipped out of favour under Mikel Arteta and the club are prepared to consider offers if their asking price is met.
Interest from multiple clubs
Martinelli has been consistently linked with a move away from the Premier League champions this summer. Galatasaray held talks earlier this month, while AS Roma have also expressed interest in the 25-year-old.
The Athletic now report that Al Hilal are actively pursuing a deal and are in discussions with Martinelli’s representatives over a prospective move. Arsenal are believed to be seeking around £60 million.
Career crossroads
While no deal has been struck, talks are continuing - and Martinelli is understood to be receptive to the prospect of playing in Saudi Arabia.
He finds himself at a career crossroads, with regular first-team football in north London appearing improbable following the arrival of Christos Tzolis and Arsenal's efforts to recruit another forward, with Julian Alvarez amongst those linked.
Mikel Arteta omitted Martinelli from his matchday squads for both the Community Shield and the home victory over Coventry City on Friday night.
Ian Wright's concerns
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has confessed he feels 'uncomfortable' with the manner in which Martinelli is being handled. "With respect to Martinelli and the way he's being treated at the moment, it really makes me uncomfortable," he told 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 situation
Martinelli has 12 months remaining on his existing contract, and while Arsenal possess an option to prolong it by another year, triggering that clause now seems improbable. The winger joined the Emirates Stadium in 2019, arriving from Brazilian outfit Ituano in a £6m transfer.
Arsenal are also prepared to part ways with Gabriel Jesus, with the Brazil international anticipated to depart as a free agent at the conclusion of the season should he fail to secure a transfer this summer or in January.
