Al Hilal Sign Gabriel Martinelli for Record $81M Fee from Arsenal

Brazil international Gabriel Martinelli joins Al Hilal for a fixed fee of £60 million ($81m) after seven years at Arsenal.

Al Hilal finalized the acquisition of Brazil international winger Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal on Thursday, September 3, 2026. The Saudi Pro League side agreed to pay a fixed fee of £60 million ($81m) for the 25-year-old, establishing a new record for the highest outgoing transfer in Arsenal's history. This transaction surpasses the previous club record set in 2017 when Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain moved to Liverpool for £35m. According to sources cited by James Olley, the deal also includes a sell-on clause ensuring Arsenal receives a percentage of any future transfer involving the player.

Martinelli arrives at a club currently positioned at the summit of the Saudi Pro League. Al Hilal maintains a perfect 100% winning record through the first four matches of the current domestic season. The winger has committed to a four-year contract with the Riyadh-based outfit, ending a seven-year tenure in North London. During his time at the Emirates Stadium, the Brazilian recorded 62 goals across 278 total appearances for the Gunners.

Record-Breaking Departure from North London

The transfer follows a highly successful final full season for Martinelli at Arsenal, where he featured in 53 matches. During that campaign, the club secured its first Premier League title in 22 years and progressed to the final of the UEFA Champions League. Despite these contributions, the winger's role shifted at the start of the 2026 season. Managerial staff omitted him from the matchday squads for the opening Premier League fixtures against Coventry City and Aston Villa.

Arsenal’s tactical shift coincided with the summer signing of Greek international left-winger Christos Tzolis. Tzolis earned starting positions in the club’s initial league games of the season, effectively replacing Martinelli in the lineup. The Brazilian had originally joined Arsenal as an 18-year-old prospect, arriving from the Brazilian club Ituano.

International Pedigree and World Cup Performance

Martinelli’s profile includes significant experience with the Brazil national team. He was a member of the squad during the most recent World Cup, where he contributed a goal during a victory over Japan in the round of 32. Brazil's tournament run eventually concluded when they were eliminated by Norway.

Financial Terms and Future Implications

The $81 million valuation reflects Martinelli's status as a key figure in Arsenal's recent resurgence, even as he moves to the Middle East. The inclusion of a future sell-on percentage provides Arsenal with potential long-term financial benefits beyond the immediate £60 million influx. The deal was officially confirmed at 12:35 PM ET, marking one of the most significant moves of the September transfer window for the Saudi Pro League. Martinelli now joins a squad that has yet to drop a point in league play this year, further strengthening Al Hilal's bid for the title.