Al Hilal launches £95m double raid for Martinelli and Watkins

Riyadh-based Al Hilal have launched a combined £95 million ($124 million) pursuit of Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli and Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, according to reports from transfer specialists David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano on Monday, 24 August. The Saudi Pro League side has opened formal negotiations for Martinelli, submitting a package valued at nearly £50 million. The 25-year-old Brazilian, who has recorded 62 goals in 278 appearances for Arsenal since 2019, is reportedly considering the move after previously rejecting interest from Galatasaray. Arsenal is prepared to sanction the sale if valuation requirements are met. Watkins omitted from squad amid talks Simultaneously, Al Hilal has lodged a €53 million (£45 million) bid for England international Ollie Watkins. The striker was excluded from Aston Villa’s matchday squad against Brighton as discussions between the two clubs intensified. While Villa remains reluctant to lose their primary goalscorer, Watkins has reportedly agreed to personal terms, motivated by a significant salary package offered by the Riyadh club. Al Hilal’s aggressive recruitment strategy targets a return to the top of the Saudi Pro League, seeking to displace current leaders Al Nassr. Beyond the primary duo, the club has also identified Chelsea’s Pedro Neto as a potential target, though Chelsea’s £100 million valuation remains a significant barrier to a triple swoop. Strategic shift in Saudi recruitment The timing of these bids…