Arsenal are engaged in negotiations regarding a possible transfer of Gabriel Martinelli, with the summer transfer window set to shut on September 1.
The Brazilian forward may leave the north London club before the September 1 cutoff date.
It is reported that Arsenal have held discussions with Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal about a potential move for Martinelli. The 25-year-old has fallen down the attacking hierarchy, and the club are willing to listen to offers if their price is met.
Martinelli has frequently been associated with leaving the Premier League champions during this transfer window. Galatasaray held conversations earlier this month, while AS Roma have also expressed interest in the player.
The Athletic now report that Al Hilal are actively pursuing a transfer and are in discussions with Martinelli’s representatives about a proposed switch. Arsenal are believed to be looking for a fee of approximately £60million.
Although no deal has been finalised, talks are continuing and Martinelli is understood to be receptive to the idea of playing in Saudi Arabia.
He finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career, with consistent first-team football in north London appearing unlikely following the signing of Christos Tzolis and Arsenal’s attempts to sign another forward, with Julian Alvarez among those mentioned as potential targets.
Mikel Arteta omitted Martinelli from his matchday squads for both the Community Shield and the victory over Coventry on Friday evening.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has confessed he feels uneasy about how Martinelli is being handled.
With regard to Martinelli and his current situation at the club, Wright expressed his discomfort on Sky Sports.
He gives his absolute all on the pitch. Nobody is claiming he is the best player in the world, but he has produced important moments for Arsenal in significant matches, and the way he is being treated at this point is concerning. While the club may want him to leave and many are saying it is time for him to move on, there are proper ways to handle such a situation that should also work in his favour.
Martinelli has 12 months remaining on his existing contract, and although Arsenal possess an option to extend it for an additional year, activating that clause now appears improbable. The winger arrived at the Emirates Stadium in 2019 from Brazilian club Ituano in a £6million transfer.
Arsenal are also willing to part ways with Gabriel Jesus, with the Brazilian international expected to depart as a free agent at the end of the season should he fail to secure a move this summer or in January.