Gabriel Martinelli Welcomes Competition at Arsenal Amid Rumored €85 Million Saudi Bid
Arsenal’s Transfer Window Heating Up With Potential Record-Breaking Offer
Arsenal’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be one of the most eventful in recent years, with winger Gabriel Martinelli at the center of intense speculation. While the 24-year-old Brazilian has faced criticism for his form during the 2024/25 season, he remains a pivotal attacking option for the Gunners. Rumors have emerged that Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr are considering a staggering bid of €85 million (£73 million) for Martinelli — a figure that would smash Arsenal’s current record for player sales.
However, as of early July 2025, Arsenal has not received any official approach from Al-Nassr, and the club’s stance is reportedly cautious. Any such bid, if it arrives, could force Arsenal’s hand, potentially paving the way for a significant sale that might fund major reinforcements in attack. Sources indicate that the Gunners are actively seeking reinforcements across multiple attacking positions including wingers, strikers, and attacking midfielders to finally break their trophy drought[Football365, PainInTheArsenal, FootballInsider247].
Martinelli’s 2024/25 Campaign and Arsenal’s Ambitions
Martinelli’s disappointing form this past campaign has led to growing pressure on the young forward. Despite being a key player, his performances have not met expectations, coinciding with Arsenal finishing second in the Premier League for the third consecutive season without securing any silverware. The club’s management, led by Mikel Arteta, is determined to bolster the squad’s attacking prowess to mount a stronger title challenge next season.
The Brazilian’s potential departure is complicated by his own ambitions. At 24, Martinelli likely aspires to continue competing at the highest level of European football rather than moving prematurely to a lower-profile league like the Saudi Pro League. Bayern Munich has also expressed previous interest in the winger, looking to strengthen its attacking options, adding another layer of complexity to the transfer saga[Football365, PainInTheArsenal].
Arsenal’s Strategic Reinforcements and Transfer Targets
Arsenal’s approach to squad building this transfer window is comprehensive. Alongside the ongoing pursuit of Martinelli’s replacement, the Gunners are actively working on several signings to enhance squad depth:
- Kepa Arrizabalaga (Chelsea) – Goalkeeper to add competition and experience in goal
- Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad) – Midfield reinforcement to strengthen the spine
- Christian Norgaard (Brentford) – Versatile midfielder for added dynamism
On the attacking front, Arsenal is targeting several promising names to compete with or potentially replace Martinelli, including Rodrygo from Real Madrid, Noni Madueke from Chelsea, and Eberechi Eze. The club’s ambition is clear: to build a robust attacking unit capable of challenging for major honors with quality and depth in every position.
The Financial Implications of a Martinelli Sale
The rumored €85 million bid from Al-Nassr would provide Arsenal with unprecedented funds to invest in the transfer market. To put it in context, this figure is more than double the highest fee Arsenal has ever received for a player — previously £35 million for sales such as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Folarin Balogun.
Arsenal’s management is weighing the prospect carefully. Selling one of their top attacking talents would not only bring a financial windfall but also enable the club to pursue multiple high-quality signings to address their wider squad needs. However, there is also the risk that offloading Martinelli could disrupt squad harmony and reduce attacking options if replacements are not finalized swiftly.
What Lies Ahead for Gabriel Martinelli and Arsenal?
For Martinelli, the decision to stay or leave will be crucial at this stage of his career. Remaining at Arsenal offers continuity in a competitive European league with chances to develop further. Conversely, a move to Al-Nassr could be financially lucrative but may not align with his sporting ambitions yet.
The Gunners, meanwhile, appear focused on constructing a squad capable of finally converting Premier League consistency into trophy success. Whether Martinelli remains or moves on, Arsenal’s transfer moves this summer will be critical in shaping their trajectory for the 2025/26 season and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Arsenal received an official offer for Gabriel Martinelli from Al-Nassr?
As of early July 2025, Arsenal has not received any official bid from Al-Nassr for Gabriel Martinelli, although rumors suggest a potential offer of €85 million may be forthcoming.
Why might Arsenal consider selling Martinelli despite his importance?
Arsenal may consider selling Martinelli if the bid is substantial enough to fund major reinforcements in the squad, particularly to strengthen their attacking options and improve depth across multiple positions.
Who are Arsenal targeting as potential replacements or additions in attack?
Arsenal is targeting several players this transfer window including Rodrygo from Real Madrid, Noni Madueke from Chelsea, and Eberechi Eze, aiming to bolster the winger, striker, and attacking midfield positions.
What was Gabriel Martinelli’s form like in the 2024/25 season?
Martinelli experienced a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, facing criticism over his performances but remaining an important part of Arsenal’s attacking lineup.
How did Arsenal perform in the 2024/25 season?
Arsenal finished second in the Premier League for the third consecutive year but failed to win any trophies, prompting a transfer strategy focused on strengthening the attack.
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