Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal have entered into talks with Arsenal regarding the potential sale of Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli, with the London club open to letting him leave this summer.

Manager Mikel Arteta has made it clear that Martinelli no longer features in his plans, effectively giving the 2019 signing permission to seek a new challenge. Martinelli has 12 months left on his contract at Emirates Stadium.

Galatasaray bid rejected

Turkish side Galatasaray had expressed a keen interest in Martinelli earlier this window, submitting a £45 million offer — but the winger was unwilling to make the move to Istanbul, and the bid was ultimately rebuffed.

Al-Hilal have since signalled to Arsenal that they are prepared to surpass Galatasaray's offer. Martinelli first joined Arsenal from Brazilian club Ituano six years ago and has been a regular in the squad ever since.

Watkins also in Al-Hilal's sights

Martinelli is not the only top-flight attacker on Al-Hilal's radar this window. The Saudi club are simultaneously pursuing Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, whose future at Villa Park is equally uncertain.

Watkins did not feature in Aston Villa's opening Premier League defeat against Brighton on Sunday, and manager Unai Emery declined to guarantee the England international would remain at the club.