Gabriel Martinelli nears record-breaking transfer to Al-Hilal

Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli is nearing a transfer to the Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. Negotiations between the two clubs have reached an advanced stage, with the deal potentially worth between £50 million and £60 million. If finalized, the transfer would set a new record for Arsenal’s most expensive player sale, surpassing the £35 million move of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to Liverpool in 2017.

Reports indicate that Martinelli, 25, has already expressed openness to the move and is expected to travel to Riyadh to finalize personal terms. The Saudi club is reportedly offering a significant salary increase, with some reports suggesting a package around €20 million per year. Al-Hilal aims to integrate the Brazilian winger into their squad quickly to bolster their attacking options under manager Simone Inzaghi.

The potential departure follows Martinelli being omitted from Arsenal’s recent matchday squads, including the Community Shield and the Premier League opener against Coventry City. Manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly indicated that the player is no longer central to his immediate plans. In response to the potential loss of Martinelli, Arsenal is reportedly monitoring alternatives, including Marseille’s Igor Paixao, to maintain depth in the left-wing position.