Arsenal have opened discussions with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal over a possible transfer for Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli.

The 25-year-old is understood to be available for a move this summer after manager Mikel Arteta informed him that he is no longer part of his plans at the Emirates Stadium.

Martinelli has one year left on his current Arsenal contract, making his situation particularly significant as the club considers its options.

Al-Hilal have emerged as a stronger contender after previously attracting interest from Galatasaray.

The Turkish club reportedly submitted a €45 million offer, but Martinelli was unwilling to move to Istanbul. Al-Hilal are now prepared to go beyond that proposal in an attempt to secure the winger.

Martinelli joined Arsenal from Brazilian club Ituano in 2019 and has since developed into an important attacking option.

Last season, he featured 53 times across competitions and scored 11 goals as Arsenal claimed the Premier League title.

Despite that contribution, he was not included in Arsenal’s squad for their opening league fixture against Coventry, further highlighting the uncertainty surrounding his future.

Former Arsenal forward Ian Wright has expressed concern about the way the club is handling the situation, arguing that Martinelli deserves consideration in deciding his next destination.

Al-Hilal are also pursuing Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins, who was absent from Villa’s opening match of the season.

With the transfer window approaching its conclusion, Martinelli’s future is expected to become clearer soon in the coming days.