By Francis Onyach - Reporter
UK ,August 30 , 2026 - Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli is on the verge of leaving the Premier League for Saudi Arabia, with Al Hilal closing in on an agreement for the Brazil international in a deal worth more than €65 million.
Fabrizio Romano has reported that the transfer has reached the final stages, with Arsenal and Al Hilal finalising the financial package. Earlier reporting indicated that the deal would include a guaranteed fee plus potential add-ons, with Martinelli also giving the green light to the move.
The latest development represents a dramatic conclusion to Martinelli's six-year spell at Arsenal. The winger joined the Gunners from Brazilian club Ituano in 2019 and developed into an important member of Mikel Arteta's squad. He has made almost 190 appearances for Arsenal and scored more than 40 goals, while winning the FA Cup and Community Shield during his time in north London.
Martinelli's proposed transfer is part of an increasingly ambitious recruitment strategy from Al Hilal.
The Saudi giants have already completed a major deal for Crysencio Summerville this summer and have simultaneously pursued Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins. Watkins' move has now also been agreed, with Aston Villa accepting an offer worth around £50 million.
The combination of Watkins and Martinelli would give Al Hilal an entirely new attacking dimension, adding proven Premier League quality to their squad.
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ESPN reported that the Martinelli deal could reach approximately €65 million, while other reports have described the package as Arsenal's biggest-ever player sale.
For Arsenal, selling Martinelli represents a major sporting and financial decision.
The Brazilian has experienced periods of reduced playing time as competition for attacking positions has increased. Nevertheless, losing a 25-year-old Brazil international with Premier League experience leaves Arteta without one of his most explosive wide players.
The financial return could make the decision easier to justify, particularly with Arsenal continuing to reshape their squad.
Martinelli is now expected to travel for the necessary medical examinations after receiving authorisation, with a long-term contract awaiting him in Saudi Arabia.