Arsenal aims to capitalize on strong start against Aston Villa
The Premier League champions, Arsenal, are poised to build on their impressive opening day victory over Coventry City as they prepare to face Aston Villa this coming Monday night. Mikel Arteta’s team secured a convincing 3-0 win against Coventry, and the Spanish manager will look for his players to carry that momentum into their clash at Villa Park.
However, in the lead-up to Monday’s match, rumblings of a potential departure from the squad have emerged, casting a shadow over the team’s preparations.
According to renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal are nearing an agreement for Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, with a deal rumored to be worth approximately £55 million.
Romano indicates that discussions between the two clubs are progressing well, with Al Hilal looking to secure the Brazilian’s services before the transfer window closes.
Since joining Arsenal from Brazilian side Ituano in 2019, the 25-year-old Martinelli has developed into a key player for the Gunners. Across all competitions, he has made 278 appearances, contributing 62 goals and 36 assists to the club’s success.
However, during the last season, Martinelli found himself starting only 11 of Arsenal’s 38 league matches as they clinched the Premier League title. Notably, he did not feature in the squad for the opening day victory over Coventry.
While the agreement between Arsenal and Al Hilal seems imminent, Romano notes that the final outcome largely hinges on Martinelli’s willingness to make the move, which could reshape both his career and Arsenal’s attacking options.
Currently, Martinelli’s contract with Arsenal extends until the end of this season, but with Al Hilal pushing to finalize a deal, it remains to be seen if this Brazilian talent will depart before the transfer window closes.
