Transfer: Arsenal to sell Martinelli for club-record fee

Arsenal have commenced negotiations with Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal in regards to a potential transfer for Brazilian forward Gabriel Martinelli, who has reportedly been granted permission to explore a move away from the Emirates. According to BBC Sports, manager Mikel Arteta has informed Martinelli that he is no longer part of his plans, leaving the 25-year-old facing an uncertain future after the conclusion of his contract in the coming year.

Al-Hilal has identified Martinelli as a top target and are reportedly ready to offer more than Galatasaray's previous bid of €45 million for the player. Galatasaray had previously made an offer for Martinelli, but the forward had rejected the prospect of joining the Turkish club. Arsenal are, however, holding out for a fee of approximately €70 million as they weigh up their options for a player who has been integral to the squad in recent seasons.

Al-Hilal's interest may now present a pathway for Martinelli to leave north London, with the Saudi club indicating they are willing to exceed the figure previously proposed by Galatasaray. Martinelli joined Arsenal from Brazilian side Ituano in 2019 and has since become an established member of the first-team squad. Nonetheless, his potential departure has sparked criticism, particularly from former Arsenal striker Ian Wright, who has questioned the club's handling of the situation.

Wright expressed his discomfort with Arteta's decision to exclude Martinelli from his plans and argued that the player should be afforded greater consideration as Arsenal look to manage his exit. Wright noted that while Arsenal may believe it is time for Martinelli to depart, the player should have a role in determining how his departure unfolds.

"The way Martinelli is being treated at the moment, it really makes me feel uncomfortable," Wright stated. "I know they might want him out, and a lot of people might say, ‘yeah, it’s time for him to move him on. But there’s ways of doing that and it should suit him as well, how he wants to leave." Martinelli was omitted from Arsenal's matchday squad for their Premier League opener against Coventry on Friday, despite having participated in the club's title-winning campaign during the previous season.