Gabriel Martinelli to leave Arsenal for Al-Hilal in record transfer sale
August 30, 2026 21:22
EyeFootball reports that Gabriel Martinelli is set to leave Arsenal for Saudi side Al-Hilal in a move that would bring the north London club about £55.7 million. The figure is described as a record transfer sale for Arsenal, with the initial report attributed to Goal.
Martinelli, who has spent nearly seven years at Arsenal and is widely regarded as a supporters’ favourite, is expected to continue his career in Saudi Arabia after the club agreed to let him pursue the move. The decision follows manager Mikel Arteta’s choice to permit the forward to depart.
KEY CONTEXT
- The transfer would represent one of Arsenal’s most significant outgoing deals in recent windows, both financially and because of Martinelli’s profile at the club.
- The move is presented as another example of the growing attraction of Saudi Arabian clubs in the transfer market, with Al-Hilal reportedly moving decisively for the winger.
- The report appears during the 2026 summer window, which closes on September 1, 2026.
WHY IT MATTERS
- A sale at this fee would supply Arsenal with a sizable cash inflow and set a new high-water mark for the club’s transfer income.
- Sporting consequences include the loss of a prominent wide option who has been closely associated with Arsenal’s current era under Mikel Arteta.
- The transfer underscores shifting dynamics in player recruitment, with clubs outside Europe able to secure players still tied to major European teams.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Formal confirmation from the clubs involved (Arsenal and Al-Hilal) and any official paperwork that completes the transfer.
- How Arsenal chooses to allocate the reported proceeds and which personnel decisions follow Martinelli’s departure.
- How quickly Martinelli integrates into Al-Hilal and the role he is given there.
KEY FACTS
- Reported fee: £55.7 million.
- Reported to be a record transfer sale for Arsenal.
- Martinelli has been at Arsenal for almost seven years and is viewed as a fan favourite.
- Reported source: Goal, as cited by EyeFootball.
- Transfer window closes September 1, 2026.