Arsenal face £60m decision as Al Hilal target Martinelli

Arsenal could sell Brazil international Gabriel Martinelli to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal for a reported £60 million, with the transfer window closing on Deadline Day. The potential move has emerged as Arsenal weigh their options before the Premier League’s final registration deadline.

Al Hilal's pursuit intensifies

Standard Al Hilal are actively pursuing a deal for the Brazil international, a development that has added focus on Mikel Arteta’s squad management and Arsenal’s broader transfer planning. The interest places added pressure on the club’s decision‑making as the window draws to a close.

Martinelli was left out of the Community Shield against Manchester City and again omitted from the Premier League opener versus newly promoted Coventry City, joining other senior players such as Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira and Reiss Nelson in the 20‑man squads. His continued absence has deepened discussion about his future at the club.

Arsenal's squad constraints explained

Arteta explained that the Premier League’s cap on outfield players forces difficult choices, noting, “I’ve been trying to persuade the Premier League and the clubs to extend the number of players we can have, especially the outfield players, because we play more games and the load is unreal.” He added that the club can only name 18 outfield players for a match.

Martinelli has one year remaining on his current contract, with Arsenal holding an option to extend for a further 12 months. Standard values the winger at £60 million, a figure that would guide any negotiation with Al Hilal.

If Al Hilal are prepared to meet Arsenal’s valuation, a transfer before Deadline Day cannot be discounted, according to the report. The timing aligns with the league’s final registration deadline, making the deal time‑sensitive.

A sale would provide Arsenal with a substantial fee while freeing a squad spot, and Al Hilal would acquire a Brazil international to bolster their attacking options. Both parties stand to gain, with Arsenal potentially reinvesting the funds and Al Hilal strengthening their forward line.