Transfer: Agbonlahor shocked by Arsenal’s decision to sell Martinelli

Former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor has expressed surprise at Arsenal’s decision to sell Brazilian forward Gabriel Martinelli during the summer transfer window.

Agbonlahor believes Arsenal could have done more to keep the 25-year-old, including offering him a new contract instead of allowing him to leave the club.

Arsenal have already made several changes to their attacking options this summer. Leandro Trossard has left the Gunners, while the club signed Christos Tzolis. Gabriel Jesus has also completed a move to Barcelona.

Martinelli is now set to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in a transfer worth around £55 million. His departure will bring an end to his seven-year spell with Arsenal.

Speaking after Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park, Agbonlahor said, “Don’t you look at last night and think a player Arsenal could have utilised in that second half was Martinelli?

“I’m still perplexed that Arsenal have sold Martinelli for £50-55m, at just 25 years of age, with some remarkable moments at that football club. I understand [he’s in the final year of his deal] but if you offer him the right contract then he would have remained, undoubtedly.”

ALSO READ

• EPL: Michael Owen, Martin Keown name Arsenal player Arteta should drop against Chelsea
• EPL table: Saka nets winner as Arsenal go joint-top with Man City

Martinelli joined Arsenal from Ituano in 2019 and went on to make 278 senior appearances for the club. He scored 62 goals and provided 36 assists, while also helping Arsenal win a league title and the FA Cup.