Al-Hilal are ready to offer more than €50 million for Gabriel Martinelli after stepping up their pursuit of the Arsenal forward, while Newcastle United have also made an enquiry about a potential deal.
The 25-year-old’s future at the Emirates has become increasingly uncertain after falling down Mikel Arteta’s attacking pecking order. Arsenal are now prepared to consider offers for Martinelli and are believed to value the Brazil international at between €50 million and €60 million.
That valuation would not present a major obstacle for Al-Hilal, who have identified Martinelli as one of their priority attacking targets before the summer transfer window closes.
Al-Hilal prepare major Martinelli offer
Al-Hilal are prepared to meet Arsenal’s financial expectations and are reportedly planning an offer worth more than €50 million. Representatives of the Saudi club are expected to hold discussions with Martinelli’s camp and Arsenal officials as they attempt to establish whether the winger can be convinced to move to the Saudi Pro League.
Acording to Fichajes, Martinelli’s preference has previously been to continue his career in Europe, which could represent the biggest obstacle to Al-Hilal’s pursuit.
Galatasaray have already discovered that difficulty after Martinelli rejected the possibility of moving to Turkey despite the Turkish champions submitting an offer worth around €45 million. However, his reduced role at Arsenal means the Brazilian must now assess his options before the deadline.
Martinelli was left out of Arsenal’s Community Shield squad and also missed their Premier League opener against Coventry City, further indicating that he is no longer considered indispensable by Arteta.
Newcastle make approach for Martinelli
Al-Hilal are not alone in pursuing the former Ituano attacker as Newcastle United have enquired about the conditions of a potential transfer as they assess whether to bring Martinelli to St. James’ Park. Roma have also sought information about his situation, leaving Arsenal with multiple potential destinations for the winger.
Martinelli remains under contract until June 2027, meaning Arsenal are in a position to demand a substantial fee despite being willing to sanction his departure. Al-Hilal may be able to offer Arsenal exactly what they want financially, but convincing Martinelli could prove much harder.
His preference for remaining in European football gives Newcastle an obvious advantage if they decide to turn their enquiry into a concrete bid. With Arsenal prepared to sell and Al-Hilal ready to exceed €50 million, the next move from the Tyneside club could determine whether this becomes a genuine transfer battle before the deadline.
