Gabriel Martinelli Close to £40m Transfer to Al Hilal Amid Arsenal Squad Discontent with Mikel Arteta

Gabriel Martinelli is approaching a transfer from Arsenal to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal. The winger's exit follows a firm directive from manager Mikel Arteta telling him to find a new team. This tough stance has reportedly stirred unease among the Arsenal players.

Frozen Out of the Team

Despite being one of Arsenal's longest-serving players, Martinelli has recently been left out of matchday squads altogether. His exclusion signals a sharp change in Arteta's approach as he pushes to reshape the squad after winning the Premier League title.

Squad Unhappy with Treatment

The manner in which Arteta has handled Martinelli's situation has caused tension within the dressing room. Reports from ESPN indicate that many teammates feel sympathy for Martinelli, especially since he missed out on a winners medal after being excluded from the Community Shield win over Manchester City. This omission left Martinelli disappointed and upset some senior players as well.

New Signings Hint at Martinelli's Future

The signs were clear earlier this summer when Arsenal signed promising forward Christos Tzolis for £34 million. There was also an ambitious but unsuccessful attempt to sign Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid, suggesting Arteta wanted to refresh his options on the left wing.

Martinelli debuted for Arsenal's first team in 2019 and has appeared nearly 300 times for the club. While his influence dipped slightly last season, he played a key role in Arsenal's journey to the Champions League final and their first league title since 2004.

Saudi Arabia Move Now Likely

After being left out of Arsenal's opening Premier League match against Coventry City, Martinelli's departure seems inevitable. Although interest from Turkish club Galatasaray did not appeal, reports from Globo Esporte say he has now accepted a move to Saudi Arabia, despite some initial hesitation.

The exact transfer fee is still under discussion. Arsenal are said to want around £60 million, but sources like ESPN believe the final deal may be closer to £40 million.

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