Martinelli joins Al-Hilal from Arsenal for reported £60 million

Gabriel Martinelli, a 25-year-old Brazilian international forward, has transferred from Arsenal to Al-Hilal Saudi Pro League side, according to Arsenal's website announcement. The fee for the move remains undisclosed, but British media has reported it to be a guaranteed £60 million. This would make Martinelli the most expensive player to leave Arsenal since Alex Oxlade Chamberlain's £35 million move to Liverpool in 2017.

Martinelli made 53 appearances for Arsenal during the 2022-23 season, contributing with 11 goals as the London club secured their first Premier League title since 2004. His four-year contract with Al-Hilal comes as the Saudi side currently leads the Saudi Pro League alongside Ronaldo's Al-Nassr. During his unveiling on Al-Hilal's social media, Martinelli expressed his pride and excitement to be part of the team.

The move follows Martinelli's departure from Arsenal, who signed Leandro Trossard to Besiktas. This departure has left Arsenal short-handed on the left side of their attack. Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright criticized the club's decision to leave Martinelli out of their opening two squads of the season, stating that it left the player feeling uncomfortable and questioning the club's approach to the situation.