A proposed move for Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal to Al Hilal is edging closer, with the clubs in advanced talks over a package worth more than €65m. The transfer is not over the line yet, though, as Martinelli and his representatives still need to decide whether to proceed, and some final terms remain to be settled.
- Arsenal and Al Hilal are in advanced discussions over a package for Martinelli worth more than €65m.
- Martinelli remains an Arsenal player, with his decision and the final deal details still outstanding.
- Al Hilal shifted their focus to Martinelli after a move for a more expensive winger proved too costly.
Gabriel Martinelli’s Current Transfer Situation
Gabriel Martinelli is at the centre of this proposed move to Al Hilal, and talks between the two clubs now appear to be in their closing stages. That said, this is still an advanced negotiation rather than a completed transfer. The final fee structure and contract details are not yet fully settled.
For Arsenal, the situation remains finely balanced. Martinelli remains on their books unless he and his camp give the green light, even with a package of over €65m under discussion. His recent numbers help explain why the move carries such weight: he made 30 Premier League appearances in 2025, returning one goal and four assists, while also producing six goals and one assist in seven Champions League league phase appearances.
Why Al Hilal Have Turned to Martinelli
Al Hilal’s push for Martinelli looks tied to a change in direction out wide. A move for Pedro Neto became too expensive once Chelsea’s valuation climbed to €117m (£100m), and that appears to have pushed Martinelli higher up the Saudi club’s shortlist.
That switch also fits a wider recruitment pattern rather than a one-off reaction. Al Hilal had already added Crysencio Summerville to their left-sided options earlier in the summer, meaning Martinelli would be part of a broader effort to strengthen that flank instead of an isolated late-window addition.
Arsenal Implications and the Remaining Decision
If Martinelli and his camp decide to go ahead, the deal would be a significant one for Arsenal. A sale at this level would eclipse Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s €38m switch to Liverpool and set a new club record for an outgoing transfer.
Arsenal’s next steps matter almost as much as Martinelli’s own decision. The club would be expected to want a replacement lined up before letting him leave, as his departure could leave Christos Tzolis as the only recognised left winger in the squad. Martinelli also turned down a move to Galatasaray earlier in the process, underlining that the player’s final call is far from a mere formality.
