Martinelli Joins Al Hilal from Arsenal in £60m Deal

Al Hilal has completed the permanent signing of Brazilian forward Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal, adding another high-profile name to the club's attacking line-up in Saudi Arabia.

The move was reported as a four-year contract that runs until 2030, tying the winger to the Saudi club for the medium term. The reported transfer fee stood at around £60 million — roughly €70 million or about US$81 million.

Details around the structure of the deal varied slightly across reports. One account described the fee as a fixed amount with no add-ons, while another indicated that Arsenal retained a sell-on clause that could bring the English side a share of any future transfer.

Why it matters

The signing continues the wave of established international talent moving to the Saudi Pro League, strengthening the competition's profile and giving local fans the chance to watch top-tier players on home soil. For residents and expats across the Kingdom, the arrival of a player of Martinelli's stature adds to the appeal of live matchdays and the growing football culture in Saudi Arabia.

Al Hilal's attacking department now features a mix of experienced and dynamic forwards, and the addition of a pacey wide player is expected to add further depth to the squad for the seasons ahead.

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