Gabriel Martinelli’s career at Arsenal is rapidly approaching its conclusion as the North London club actively negotiates his departure. Arsenal are seeking a fee in the region of £60million for the Brazil international, with direct talks now underway with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal. The forward has effectively been deemed surplus to requirements by the Premier League champions, a status underscored by his complete absence from recent competitive fixtures. Martinelli was left out of the matchday squad for the Community Shield and was similarly omitted from the team for Friday’s clash against Coventry City.
Although no formal agreement has been finalized between the clubs, discussions are continuing at a steady pace. Negotiations are taking place between Arsenal and Al-Hilal, alongside parallel talks involving the player’s representatives. Martinelli himself is open to accepting the move to the Gulf state, representing a concrete sign that his time in English football is drawing to a close. While there is still distance to travel before any paperwork is signed, Arsenal’s explicit £60million valuation has provided a clear framework for all negotiating parties.
Al-Hilal are not the sole party expressing serious interest in the Brazilian attacker’s services. Italian club Napoli have also formally approached Arsenal, initiating conversations regarding a potential summer transfer. The Serie A side’s interest introduces a compelling European option for Martinelli, though any prospective buyer will need to meet Arsenal’s steep asking price. The Gunners are intent on securing a club-record transfer fee for the player, aiming to maximize their financial return in what promises to be a significant transaction.
The impending departure marks the end of a remarkable seven-year journey in North London. Martinelli initially arrived at the club as an almost total unknown, plucked from his boyhood Brazilian side Ituano on the direct recommendation of prolific talent spotter Francis Cagigao. Over seven years, the Brazilian winger developed into a high-profile figure at the Emirates Stadium. As recently as August 9, 2026, he featured in pre-season action during a friendly against Borussia Dortmund at the Emirates. However, his swift omission from subsequent competitive matchday squads confirms his time at the club has reached its end.
With multiple negotiation tracks active, the final outcome will depend on whether interested suitors meet Arsenal’s firm valuation. The Gunners remain steadfast in their pursuit of a £60million package, leaving Al-Hilal and Napoli to decide if they will fulfill those financial demands before the transfer window closes. As discussions move forward, the player’s focus centers on settling into his next chapter, concluding a memorable seven-year spell in North London.
