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Gabriel Martinelli’s Arsenal future has taken another major turn, with Al Hilal now making direct club-to-club contact over a potential deal for the Brazilian winger.
The Saudi Pro League giants had previously been considering several attacking options, but Martinelli has moved to the front of their shortlist.
More importantly, the 25-year-old is now open to discussing a move to Saudi Arabia, potentially bringing his seven-year spell at Arsenal closer to an end.
Al-Hilal make official contact with Arsenal
Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal
Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
According to Fabrizio Romano, Al Hilal have officially contacted Arsenal to discuss a deal for Martinelli.
The Brazilian is now considered their preferred option ahead of Chelsea winger Pedro Neto and Juventus attacker Francisco Conceição.
Martinelli has also opened the door to joining the Saudi club, representing a significant change after previously prioritising a move within Europe.
The situation is already progressing quickly. talkSPORT reported that Al Hilal have submitted an opening offer worth around £50m for Martinelli.
Arsenal are believed to be open to a sale, although their valuation is closer to £60m.
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Martinelli exit looks more realistic than ever
This feels considerably more serious than the earlier interest in Martinelli.
The key development is not simply Al Hilal contacting Arsenal, it is Martinelli becoming receptive to the Saudi option.
He previously rejected Galatasaray and appeared determined to remain in Europe, so his change of stance dramatically increases the chances of a deal.
Arsenal also appear increasingly prepared for life without him. Martinelli was left out of both the Community Shield squad and the Premier League opener against Coventry, while competition for attacking places has grown.
From Arsenal’s perspective, the difference between Al Hilal’s reported £50m offer and their £60m valuation is not enormous.
If negotiations move closer to that figure, a sale could give Mikel Arteta additional funds to pursue another elite attacker before the deadline.
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Gabriel Martinelli in action
Gabriel Martinelli in action
Nuno Espirito Santo looks on during West Ham's defeat vs Charlton Athletic
Nuno Espirito Santo looks on during West Ham's defeat vs Charlton Athletic
Gabriel Martinelli in action for Arsenal
Gabriel Martinelli in action for Arsenal