Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr
Image credit: Getty Images
Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr are preparing a sensational £73 million (€85 million) bid for Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, according to journalist Ben Jacobs. The ambitious move is part of the club’s plans to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2025/26 season, with Cristiano Ronaldo and new manager Jorge Jesus targeting a marquee left winger to spearhead their title challenge.
Martinelli, 24, has been a key figure at Arsenal since joining from Brazilian side Ituano in 2019 for just £6 million. Over six seasons, the Brazilian has amassed 225 appearances and continues to be a central part of Mikel Arteta’s attacking setup. Last season alone, he contributed 10 goals and seven assists across all competitions.
Al-Nassr’s interest in Martinelli has intensified following failed attempts to sign Liverpool star Luis Díaz, who remains firmly off the market despite advances from Barcelona and Bayern Munich. The Saudi club now view Martinelli as a strong alternative and believe a lucrative offer could test Arsenal’s resolve, particularly as the Gunners explore attacking reinforcements such as Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze.
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The proposed deal includes a massive tax-free salary package worth €20 million per year, nearly three times Martinelli’s current £180,000-a-week wages. Al-Nassr are also hoping to entice the Brazilian with the opportunity to play alongside his childhood idol, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Gabriel Martinelli
Gabriel Martinelli (Image credit: Getty Images)
In a 2023 interview, Martinelli said, “The person I looked up to was always Cristiano Ronaldo. I used to watch him a lot when I was growing up.” Ronaldo, who recently extended his stay at Al-Nassr until 2027, is reportedly playing an active role in recruitment efforts.
Despite the staggering financial terms on offer, Arsenal are not currently looking to sell. Martinelli remains a vital part of Arteta’s long-term project and is seen as integral to the club’s Premier League and Champions League ambitions. The Gunners have reportedly opened early talks over a potential contract extension, further reinforcing their intention to keep him at the Emirates.
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Martinelli, for his part, has publicly expressed his affection for the club, describing Arsenal as “my home” in an interview with ESPN in April 2025. Sources close to the player suggest he is happy in London and unlikely to consider a move to Saudi Arabia unless presented with an extraordinary proposal.
Al-Nassr’s pursuit of Martinelli comes amid a period of transition at Arsenal, with several academy players departing and backroom reshuffles, including U21 coach Mehmet Ali’s recent move to Brentford. Some fans believe a significant sale could help fund big-money moves for players like Eberechi Eze or Rodrygo, while others have taken to social media to urge the club to keep hold of one of their most consistent performers.
At this stage, Al-Nassr have not yet submitted a formal offer, but the early opening of the Saudi transfer window on July 3 gives them ample time to advance negotiations. Whether Arsenal can be tempted or whether Martinelli himself can be swayed, remains to be seen.
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