transfers

Arsenal agree £55.7m club-record Gabriel Martinelli sale to Al Hilal with deal also agreed in principle with Barcelona for Gabriel Jesus | Football News | Sky Sports

Arsenal has finalized a £55.7m transfer of Gabriel Martinelli to Al Hilal, marking a club record. Additionally, a deal has been agreed in principle for Gabriel Jesus to join Barcelona.

Arsenal has finalized a club-record transfer agreement with Al Hilal for Gabriel Martinelli, reportedly worth £55.7 million. Additionally, the Gunners have reached a deal in principle with Barcelona for fellow Brazilian Gabriel Jesus, valued at £8.6 million. Arsenal is also set to sell midfielder Fabio Vieira to Hamburg for approximately £7.7 million.

Martinelli's Historic Move

Martinelli is now allowed to undergo a medical examination with Al Hilal, marking a significant milestone as his transfer will exceed the previous record of £40 million that Arsenal received from Liverpool for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2017. This move highlights Arsenal's willingness to capitalize on their assets in the transfer market.

Jesus Set for Barcelona

In a parallel development, Gabriel Jesus is preparing to leave Arsenal after the club agreed on an £8.6 million deal with Barcelona. The transfer is moving forward, with arrangements being made for Jesus to travel to Spain, potentially as early as Monday. Although there were rumors linking him to Serie A side Napoli, the deal with Barcelona appears to be progressing independently.

Jesus, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City for £45 million four years ago, has had a challenging time recently, managing only three Premier League starts last season due to a knee injury sustained in January 2025. Despite his struggles, he has made 64 appearances for the Brazilian national team, although he has not played for the Selecao since November 2023.

Barcelona's Recruitment Strategy

Barcelona is actively seeking to bolster their attacking options this summer. Head coach Hansi Flick expressed confidence in the club's recruitment efforts, stating that they are "on a good path at the moment." He emphasized the ongoing work of football director Deco to strengthen the squad without feeling pressured.

As these transfers unfold, Arsenal's strategy in the transfer market is becoming increasingly clear, with significant moves that could reshape their squad ahead of the new season.

Source: skysports.com