Al-Hilal are pursuing Premier League forwards Gabriel Martinelli and Ollie Watkins as they look to strengthen their attack before the transfer deadline. The Saudi Pro League club are in advanced talks with Arsenal over a deal for Martinelli, while their interest in Aston Villa striker Watkins is also understood to be active.

Arsenal are reportedly open to selling Martinelli, who has one year remaining on his contract and was omitted from their opening Premier League matchday squad. The club are seeking at least £50 million, while other reports place their valuation closer to £60 million. Martinelli previously rejected interest from Galatasaray, and any completed deal would ultimately depend on his willingness to move to Saudi Arabia.

Watkins was also absent from Aston Villa’s squad for their opening-weekend defeat to Brighton, with manager Unai Emery declining to guarantee that the England international would stay at Villa Park. Villa are believed to be considering attacking replacements should Al-Hilal meet their valuation, with Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson among the players linked as a possible option. No agreement for Watkins has been confirmed.

The prospect of both players leaving illustrates the difficult dynamic of the modern transfer market. Clubs make decisions based on sporting plans, contract length and financial opportunities; players, similarly, must consider their playing time, career prospects and financial security. In Martinelli’s case, reporting indicates that Arsenal’s stance is driven by a desire to reshape the squad rather than by a confirmed request from the player to leave.