Martinelli finally breaks Arsenal’s sales record
Al Hilal have finally announced the signing of Gabriel Martinelli, with the Brazilian joining them in a deal worth £60m, the Daily Mail reports.
Martinelli had been a loyal servant to Arsenal since the summer of 2019, when the Gunners signed him from little-known Ituano in Brazil. His arrival marked the beginning of a spell in which he became an important part of the squad and contributed to Arsenal’s development into one of the strongest teams in Europe.
Martinelli completes Al Hilal move
Because Martinelli had a European passport, it was easy for him to get into the team, and he soon established himself as a player capable of making an impact. The Brazilian knows how to deliver on his day, and the Gunners valued his commitment throughout his time with Arsenal.
However, at the end of last season, Arsenal felt the time had come to move Martinelli on. He has now completed his move to Al Hilal, who convinced him to join after he rejected an approach from Galatasaray in the Turkish top flight.
There had been doubts over the state of the move after the transfer window closed and Martinelli was not announced as an Al Hilal player. Those doubts have now been put to rest, with the Saudi Pro League side confirming the signing.
Arsenal benefit from major sale
Martinelli will become the latest top player from Europe to move to the Saudi Pro League. The transfer will also provide Arsenal with significant funds, with the £60m fee making Martinelli their new record sale.
The Gunners did not sign a replacement for Martinelli, but they remain confident that they have a strong enough squad ahead of the season. His departure will nevertheless bring an end to his time at Arsenal, where he had become a familiar and committed member of the team.
For Al Hilal, the signing represents an opportunity to add a player who has experience competing at the highest level with Arsenal. Martinelli will now begin a new chapter with the Saudi Pro League side after several years with the Gunners.
