Al-Hilal open talks with Arsenal for Martinelli

Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal have opened discussions with Arsenal over a potential move for Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli.

Martinelli, who has entered the final 12 months of his contract at the Emirates Stadium, is available for transfer this summer as Arsenal consider his future.

Al-Hilal have reportedly informed Arsenal that they are prepared to exceed the €45 million offer previously made by Galatasaray for the 25-year-old.

The Saudi club are now exploring a deal to secure Martinelli’s signature, with Arsenal understood to be open to his departure.

Martinelli joined Arsenal from Brazilian club Ituano in 2019 and made 53 appearances in all competitions last season, scoring 11 goals as the Gunners won the Premier League title.

However, the winger was left out of Arsenal’s squad for their opening Premier League fixture against Coventry City on Friday, which the champions won 3-0.

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright criticised the decision to omit Martinelli and questioned the way the club is handling his situation.

“The way Martinelli is being treated at the moment, it really makes me feel uncomfortable,” Wright told Sky Sports.

“I know they might want him out, and a lot of people might say, ‘Yeah, it’s time for him to move him on’. But there’s a way of doing that, and it should suit him as well, how he wants to leave.”

BBC Sport reports that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has explained to Martinelli why he was left out of the squad and made his position clear to the player.

Al-Hilal widen attacking search

Al-Hilal’s interest in Martinelli comes as the Saudi club continue to strengthen their attacking options and pursue Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins.

Watkins was absent from Villa’s opening-day defeat by Brighton on Sunday, with manager Unai Emery declining to guarantee that the England international will remain at Villa Park.

For Arsenal, Al-Hilal’s interest could provide an opportunity to resolve Martinelli’s uncertain future, particularly with the Saudi club reportedly willing to surpass Galatasaray’s €45 million offer.