Gabriel Martinelli to leave Arsenal for Al-Hilal in record transfer sale

Gabriel Martinelli is set to leave Arsenal for Al-Hilal in a deal that will reportedly bring the Gunners £55.7 million, marking a record transfer sale for the north London club.

According to Goal, the Brazilian winger is to continue his career in Saudi Arabia after Arsenal agreed to let him move on. The departure would close a significant chapter for Martinelli, who has been with the club for almost seven years and has become a fan favourite during his time in north London.

The decision represents a major call from manager Mikel Arteta, who has chosen to allow the forward to pursue a move elsewhere. Martinelli’s exit will be viewed as one of the most notable outgoing deals of Arsenal’s recent transfer business, not only because of the fee involved but also because of the player’s standing among supporters.

Al-Hilal are understood to have moved decisively for the winger, with the Saudi Arabian club now poised to add him to their squad. For Arsenal, the 55.7 million return provides a substantial financial boost, although the sale also removes a popular attacking option from Arteta’s group.

Martinelli’s impending switch underlines the growing pull of Saudi Arabian football in the transfer market, with Al-Hilal securing a player still closely associated with Arsenal’s current era under Arteta. The move is expected to generate mixed emotions among the Gunners fanbase, given the winger’s long spell at the club and his connection with supporters.

Arsenal will now move forward without one of their most recognisable wide players, while Martinelli prepares for a fresh challenge with Al-Hilal.