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Gabriel Martinelli transfer news: Ian Wright has stepped into the Gabriel Martinelli transfer row, defending the Arsenal winger after reports of interest from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal. Wright, speaking as a former Arsenal striker and pundit, feels the Brazilian deserves more respect after years of important goals in North London.
His frustration comes at a strange moment. Arsenal are prepared to sanction a permanent departure, according to Transfer Feed, and the feeling around the club is that Martinelli’s time has run its course. Wright’s argument is easy to understand. Fans have seen the explosive runs and big goals. They’ve also seen him lose his way.
Money changes the equation. Martinelli is reportedly earning £180,000 a week and is heading towards the final year of his guaranteed deal, with his contract running through 2027. Arsenal can’t afford to let a sizeable asset drift into a weaker negotiating position.
Then there’s the football. During 2025/26, Martinelli scored once in 30 Premier League appearances, despite Arsenal winning the title. One goal. 30 league games.
His underlying figures make uncomfortable reading, too. He sits in the bottom 18th percentile for touches and the 12th percentile for defensive contribution, helping explain why his influence has faded. Against deep, organised blocks, his old threat has often disappeared. Arsenal signing Christos Tzolis points to a wider rethink of the left flank.
Gabriel Martinelli transfer news: why Serie A is the only credible exit route
Turkey is off the table for now. Arsenal accepted a €45 million offer from Galatasaray, but Martinelli’s camp rejected the move.
That leaves Serie A as the most credible escape hatch, with Inter Milan, Roma and Napoli reportedly keeping tabs on developments. Italian football could make sense for him. There’s space to attack in transition, room for pace and a different tactical environment in which he could rediscover some swagger.
Arsenal should be careful with the numbers. A permanent fee of €45m to €50m makes sense; another loan does not. Neither does an option-heavy deal that leaves the club carrying much of the financial risk.
Read: Arsenal eye 21-year-old earning £150k/week over striker with £420m exit clause in final window
Keeping a £180,000-a-week winger who isn’t regularly making matchday squads is awkward at best and expensive at worst. Wright can look at Martinelli’s Arsenal years and feel there’s still something worth saving. Decision-makers are looking at the balance sheet and squad.