via Reuters
Saudi side Al-Hilal are in talks with Arsenal to sign Gabriel Martinelli, GMS understands. Martinelli was left out of the squad as Arsenal beat Coventry City 3-0 on Friday to kick off their Premier League defence.
Martinelli has been informed by both Mikel Arteta and other members of Arsenal's leadership team that he is surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium.
This position is down to Arsenal seeking a new left-winger, coupled with the arrival of Christos Tzolis. Eberechi Eze can also operate off the left, while right-winger Noni Madueke is capable of switching sides.
Martinelli has already turned down the chance to join Galatasaray after the Turkish club made a €45m bid to Arsenal.
The 25-year-old Brazilian is understood to be open to Al-Hilal in a change of position from 12 months ago. Back then, it was Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr who showed interest yet Martinelli preferred to stay at Arsenal, especially with the World Cup on the horizon.
Al-Hilal are making a big push for peak-age signings, having already added Crysencio Summerville.
Al-Hilal are also hoping to add Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins. As of Sunday evening, advanced talks were ongoing with Aston Villa with the England striker keen on the move.
Arsenal want over €60m to sell Martinelli with some sources insisting the final figure could even be closer to €70m [around £60m]. The valuation is informed by the fact Arsenal hold the option to extend Martinelli's contract, which currently expires next summer, until 2028.
Al-Hilal are prepared to bid more than Galatasaray but it remains to be seen if they go as high as €70m, especially knowing Arsenal wish to sell.
Michael Yormark
Michael Yormark
Arsenal remain busy in the market
REUTERS/Marcelo Del Pozo
Martinelli has made 278 appearances for Arsenal and scored 62 goals since joining from Brazilian side Ituano in 2019. Last season, he featured 53 times and scored 11 goals as Arsenal won the Premier League and reached the Champions League final.
Arsenal are not done in the market and would be open to making a bid for Julian Alvarez if Atletico Madrid offer any late-window encouragement. Everton's Illiman Ndiaye, a former Al-Hilal target, has also been discussed. There is appreciation for Juventus winger Kenan Yıldız, but sources at the Turin club have told GMS they will not sanction a sale.