Al-Hilal Opens Talks to Sign Arsenal Winger Martinelli
· Sports · BBC Sport, Sports Illustrated
Arsenal has entered negotiations with the Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal regarding the potential sale of winger Gabriel Martinelli. Manager Mikel Arteta has informed the Brazilian international that he is not part of his future plans at the Emirates Stadium. Although the Turkish club Galatasaray previously submitted a £45m bid, Martinelli declined the move to Istanbul. Al-Hilal has indicated a willingness to exceed the previous offer to secure the player, who has one year remaining on his contract. The Saudi club is simultaneously pursuing Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins.
Why it matters
Martinelli's potential departure marks a significant shift in Arsenal's squad composition, while Al-Hilal's aggressive pursuit reflects the growing influence of Saudi clubs in European football transfers.
Read the original report — BBC Sport
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