Arsenal close to selling winger for 55m
August 25, 2026 02:03
Sources cited by EyeFootball report that Arsenal are close to agreeing the sale of winger Gabriel Martinelli to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. The move is said to be progressing after talks between the player’s representatives, Arsenal and the Saudi club.
According to the same report, negotiations include a significant increase to Martinelli’s current wages as part of the move, and Martinelli has reportedly authorised his agents and Arsenal to push the transfer forward.
KEY CONTEXT
EyeFootball cites Fabrizio Romano as the journalist reporting the developments. Martinelli had been on Arsenal’s transfer list for some time and earlier in the window was reported to have declined a move to Galatasaray while seeking a more lucrative offer in Europe. Those earlier reports form the background to the current talks with Al-Hilal.
WHY IT MATTERS
If Martinelli leaves, Arsenal are expected to look for a forward replacement. The article states Atletico Madrid’s Julian Álvarez is being viewed as a leading target, and that Atlético value him at around £128m, underlining the potential cost of reinforcements should Arsenal pursue high-profile alternatives.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether the wage terms being discussed with Al-Hilal are finalised and the transfer is completed before the window shuts.
- Arsenal’s concrete transfer plans to replace Martinelli, including any formal approaches for identified targets such as Álvarez.
- The outcome before the summer window closes on September 1, 2026.
KEY FACTS
- EyeFootball cites Fabrizio Romano reporting Arsenal are close to selling Gabriel Martinelli to Al-Hilal.
- Martinelli had reportedly declined a move to Galatasaray earlier in the window.
- Negotiations reportedly include an increase to Martinelli’s wages.
- Martinelli has reportedly given his representatives and Arsenal the go-ahead to progress the deal.
- Atlético Madrid are said to value Julian Álvarez at about £128m.
- The 2026 summer transfer window closes on September 1, 2026.