Transfer: Fans will be disappointed – Smith sends message to Arsenal over two decisions

Former Arsenal star Alan Smith has sent a message to the Gunners, insisting that a section of the club’s fanbase will be disappointed if Gabriel Martinelli is allowed to exit with Leandro Trossard this summer.

Arsenal sold Trossard to Turkish side Besiktas and are close to selling Martinelli to Al-Hilal.

“For Al-Hilal, he will be a good signing. Martinelli isn’t an average player,” Smith told Sky Sports.

“Martinelli has been very good for Arsenal over the years. He’s maybe lost his way a little bit.

“Arsenal fans are disappointed to see Trossard go, and in a way, I think Martinelli would be the same because he’s given a lot to the cause over the years,” he added.

Martinelli has scored 62 goals and provided 36 assists in 278 matches for Arsenal since joining the Premier League champions in 2019.

His current contract with Arsenal expires in June 2027.