Transfer: Arsenal set asking price for Gabriel Martinelli

Arsenal have set their asking price for Brazilian winger, Gabriel Martinelli, as they aim to achieve a club-record transfer fee for the player.

Negotiations are said to be currently taking place between the Premier League champions and Al-Hilal.

The Brazil international’s stay at Arsenal seems to be coming to an end, as he was excluded from the matchday squads for both the Community Shield and the Premier League match against Coventry City.

Summer signing Christos Tzolis made a notable debut in Martinelli’s usual left-wing position, and with Mikel Arteta eager to secure another attacking signing before the transfer window closes, the Arsenal manager acknowledged that challenging decisions lie ahead.

Arteta has confirmed in the past week that Myles Lewis-Skelly and Martin Zubimendi are still part of his plans, while the north London club prefers to loan out Ethan Nwaneri.

This situation has positioned Martinelli as Arsenal’s most marketable asset, leading to the conclusion that the 25-year-old is effectively surplus to requirements.

As reported by The Athletic, Martinelli is receptive to the prospect of joining the Saudi Pro League, having turned down a potential move to Galatasaray earlier this month.

Arsenal is optimistic about securing a fee of approximately £60 million for Martinelli, who joined the club seven years ago as an almost complete unknown from his youth club Ituano, following the recommendation of renowned talent scout Francis Cagigao.

Gabriel Martinelli was omitted from Arsenal’s squad for their victory over Man City in the Community Shield.

Considering his contributions to Arsenal over the past seven years, the manner in which his forthcoming exit has been managed has left Ian Wright feeling discontented.