Gabriel Martinelli (foto: Getty Images)
Al-Hilal have opened talks with Arsenal over Gabriel Martinelli and are ready to exceed Galatasaray's €52m offer for the Brazilian winger.
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Arsenal could be heading towards a major departure before the end of the summer transfer window, with Saudi giants Al-Hilal making a serious move for Brazil international Gabriel Martinelli.
According to the BBC, Al-Hilal representatives have already opened talks with Arsenal over a transfer for the Brazilian winger.
The Saudi club have informed the London side that they are prepared to offer more than Galatasaray previously put on the table for Martinelli.
The 25-year-old's future at Arsenal has become increasingly uncertain, with manager Mikel Arteta reportedly informing him that he is no longer part of his plans.
Galatasaray offered €52 million
Galatasaray had previously shown serious interest in Martinelli and submitted an offer worth £45 million, approximately €52 million, to Arsenal.
The Gunners were prepared to consider doing business, but the obstacle came from the player.
Martinelli had no interest in moving to Istanbul and consequently rejected the possibility of joining the Turkish champions.
Al-Hilal now present Arsenal with a significantly different option. The Saudi club have indicated that they are prepared to exceed Galatasaray's €52m offer, potentially accelerating negotiations.
Arsenal also face some pressure because of Martinelli's contractual situation.
The Brazilian has only one year remaining on his contract, meaning this summer represents the club's last major opportunity to receive a substantial transfer fee unless they can agree an extension.
Could a Martinelli sale help Arsenal land Julian Alvarez?
Martinelli's departure could also give Arsenal additional financial room for a spectacular conclusion to their summer transfer business, with Julian Alvarez remaining a major target.
Arsenal are highly interested in the Atletico Madrid forward, although the Argentina international has so far shown little enthusiasm for a move to London.
That situation could potentially change over the coming days following the reception Alvarez received from Atletico supporters during the match against Villarreal.
The Spanish club have made their position clear to the striker: they would consider allowing him to join Arsenal or another club outside La Liga, while Alvarez continues to favour a transfer to Barcelona.
That leaves Arsenal in an intriguing position heading into the closing stages of the transfer window.
Selling Martinelli for more than €52m would strengthen their financial position considerably, although there is currently no confirmation that his departure would directly trigger a move for Alvarez.