Al Hilal’s £40m bid for Arsenal’s Martinelli shakes Premier League

Transfers: Al Hilal are in talks to sign 25‑year‑old Gabriel Martinelli from Premier League side Arsenal, with reports indicating a possible £40 million deal. The Saudi Arabian club have opened discussions as the Gunners consider the forward’s future during the current window.

Al Hilal’s £40m pursuit

Al Hilal, a Saudi Arabian side, have identified Martinelli as a target. They are also reportedly interested in Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa. The club is prepared to meet a valuation in the region of £40 million for the forward.

Arsenal’s options and contract

Martinelli was omitted from Mikel Arteta’s squads for Arsenal’s Community Shield win against Manchester City and their Premier League victory over Coventry. Arteta has spoken with the forward about his future as the club explore a deal to let him leave during the window. Martinelli, who has made nearly 300 appearances in seven seasons and has a year remaining on his contract, scored 11 goals last term but only twice in the Premier League. Arsenal believe they have sufficient cover on the left side with Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze able to play there.

Arsenal also added forward Christos Tzolis to the squad last month for £34 million. The club recently sold left‑sided forward Leandro Trossard to Besiktas. In the wider market, Arsenal remain interested in signing Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, though Barcelona are thought to be more likely to capture the Argentine international.

If the £40 million move materialises, Al Hilal would secure a forward with extensive Premier League experience. For Arsenal, the transfer would free up a squad spot and reduce wage commitments while leaving the left‑flank adequately covered by existing players.