Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal has identified Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli as a primary transfer target this summer. The 25-year-old Brazilian, who recorded one goal and four assists across 30 Premier League appearances last season, is currently one of three players on the Saudi club’s shortlist. Al-Hilal is reportedly prepared to offer a significant salary to secure his services, as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
The interest from Al-Hilal comes as they simultaneously pursue Chelsea’s Pedro Neto. While the Saudi club has already reached an agreement on personal terms with the Portuguese winger, they have been hesitant to meet Chelsea’s £100 million valuation. Arsenal may present a more cost-effective alternative, with the Gunners reportedly seeking roughly half that amount to part ways with Martinelli.
Arsenal appears ready to sanction Martinelli’s departure, having signaled his surplus status by omitting him from the Community Shield matchday squad against Manchester City. The club’s recent acquisition of Christos Tzolis and ongoing search for further wing reinforcements underscore their intent to move on from the Brazilian. Although Galatasaray previously approached the winger, he declined the move, expressing a preference to remain within a top European league.
In separate transfer activity, Arsenal is nearing the permanent signing of Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa. The 28-year-old England international is expected to undergo a medical before the weekend to finalize a long-term contract. The deal is valued at £50 million plus additional performance-related add-ons.
The Gunners prioritized a defensive reinforcement capable of covering both center-back and right-back positions following injuries to William Saliba and Jurrien Timber. After weeks of negotiations, Arsenal secured Konsa as their primary target. He is expected to provide defensive depth and rotate with Cristian Mosquera alongside Gabriel Magalhaes until Saliba returns to the pitch. The report also notes that the Gunners will pay £50 million plus add-ons to sign Konsa this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano. The report also notes that with the club looking to replace him, the Brazil international has been deemed surplus to requirements at the Emirates this season. The report also notes that arsenal close in on signing from PL rivals: Reports.
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