Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli completes record-breaking transfer to Saudi Pro League

Gabriel Martinelli has been officially confirmed as an Al-Hilal player following the completion of his £60 million ($81.2 million) move from Arsenal.

The 25-year-old Brazilian winger departs the Emirates for a club-record transfer fee after the Premier League champions opted to revamp their attack during the transfer window. The £60 million figure comfortably surpasses the previous record for an Arsenal sale, which was established by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s £35 million ($45.3 million) move to Liverpool back in 2017.

Martinelli’s future had been uncertain for months, with speculation connecting Arsenal to some exceptionally talented and high-priced left-wing options, including Morgan Rogers and Vinicius Junior, as per The Mirror.

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However, with the Gunners failing to secure either player or a suitable alternative in the closing days of the transfer window, Christos Tzolis remains the only new attacking addition to their roster.

Martinelli rejected a move to Galatasaray last month and was omitted from the starting lineup for both of Arsenal’s Premier League matches so far this season.

He leaves Arsenal having made 53 appearances across all competitions last season, contributing 11 goals.

The Gunners paid tribute to Martinelli’s contributions in an official statement confirming the deal, which read: “Gabriel Martinelli has joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal on a permanent transfer.

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“Gabi joined us from Brazilian club Ituano in July 2019 and went on to make 278 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring 62 goals.

“During his seven years with us, the 25-year-old played an integral role in helping us win the Premier League last season, the FA Cup in 2020 and the FA Community Shield in 2023.

“In that time, Gabi also established himself as a Brazil international, earning 27 caps and representing his country at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, where he won a gold medal, as well as the 2024 Copa America and the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups.

“Everyone at Arsenal would like to thank Gabi for his contribution to the club and wish him and his family well for the future.”