Beijing time (CEST) August 28 — renowned transfer expert Romano updated his podcast programme, reporting the latest transfer developments. These include Arsenal star Martinelli's move to Al-Hilal entering final stages, The Gunners continuing to pursue Alvarez without giving up hope, and Manchester United planning to bring in an experienced left-back and a striker before the transfer window closes, among other news. Full podcast content is below.

Martinelli's Move to Saudi Arabia Nearing Completion

"Let's start with London. Regarding Arsenal, the latest update I can give you this morning is: Gabriel Martinelli's transfer to Al-Hilal has now entered its final stages. From what I understand, Martinelli gave the green light to Al-Hilal last night. Therefore, personal terms between Martinelli and Al-Hilal have now been agreed."

"After discussing with his agency Roc Nation, his family, and close friends, Martinelli said: 'Okay, I'm ready, I'm willing to join Al-Hilal.' Now both parties are working out the specific contract details. The player's lawyers are exchanging all documents with the club, reviewing contract terms, details, and other matters. Although there are still details to be finalized, Martinelli has been given the green light to move to Saudi Arabia and join Al-Hilal, and he's ready to go."

"Now Arsenal and Al-Hilal are negotiating the transfer fee. Al-Hilal initially offered a package of £50-55 million, while Arsenal's asking price is £60 million. So the gap between the two parties is not large, and the deal is expected to be completed soon. After signing Summerville a few weeks ago and Watkins with a 'Here we go' about 48 hours ago, Al-Hilal are now ready to recruit Martinelli. This is a significant transfer because Martinelli, as a Premier League champion and Champions League finalist, will be a very important addition to Al-Hilal and their coach Inzaghi."

Jesus's Future Uncertain, Likely to Depart

"Meanwhile, another Brazilian player may also leave London. Everyone needs to watch Gabriel Jesus carefully, as developments regarding him are still ongoing. Arteta's statement over the last 24 hours was very candid, saying he 'has to make a decision'. It's clear that Jesus is currently not training normally with Arsenal's first team due to the club's surplus of attacking personnel. Therefore, at this stage, there is a very high likelihood that Jesus will leave Arsenal before the summer transfer window closes."

"Let's see what happens next. Either way, his contract runs until summer 2027. We need to respect the player's wishes, but so far, Arsenal are actively pushing to find a solution for him. Napoli is indeed a potential destination, but due to Italian financial fair play regulations, for Napoli to sign a player like Jesus, they must first clear out existing players, so it's not straightforward. Additionally, more clubs are contacting his agent, and Jesus's movement is definitely worth monitoring closely."

The Gunners Haven't Given Up on Alvarez, Waiting for a Breakthrough

"Then, friends, I know we've been tracking this for days, and many of you may not believe it, but I still have to tell you: Arsenal have been pursuing Alvarez. Arsenal are still in the game, they're waiting, and they have a strategic plan. I think this is a sensible strategy, not that Arsenal are just sitting idle. Arsenal are actively pushing behind the scenes because they need to respect the player, his family, and his agent, and the final decision rests with the player. So Arsenal can only wait, but while waiting, they're very active in conversations behind the scenes."

"According to the information I have, Arsenal have confirmed to Atlético Madrid that they're ready to begin negotiations and reach an agreement." After selling Martinelli – whether the final transfer fee is £50 million, £55 million, or £60 million, in short, somewhere between £50 million and £60 million – plus the funds Arsenal have accumulated over recent months, The Gunners have sufficient financial room to operate for Alvarez. Arsenal are always ready to sit down with Atlético Madrid and reach a deal.

"Now they're waiting on Alvarez's stance. With only four or five days left in the transfer window, any moment could be a turning point. Imagine – I know the football world and transfer market sometimes feel like another world, but this is real life – if at any moment Alvarez or his agent calls Arsenal and tells them: 'Okay, we want to go to Arsenal because there's no other way out,' then Arsenal will be ready immediately. So be prepared for this scenario, because it's absolutely not impossible."

"Arsenal have been waiting for Alvarez, and we need to keep monitoring the situation, but it's entirely dependent on the player's decision. Until today, until tonight, until the final hours, Alvarez has said 'I will only go to Barcelona, Barcelona is my dream,' but Arsenal remain patient and maintain their position."

"Let's see what happens, because Atlético Madrid's management made a very strong public statement after the Champions League draw. Regarding Alvarez's situation, Cerezo said: 'As long as I'm here, as long as I'm president of Atlético Madrid, never think that Alvarez will go to Barcelona.' This isn't just about this transfer window – he said it's impossible as long as he's in charge, sending a very strong signal. But when it comes to other clubs, he said that if the player doesn't want to stay in Madrid, going to Barça isn't an option, but we're willing to find solutions with other clubs."

"Atlético Madrid's message is very clear: if Alvarez wants to leave, Arsenal can proceed, you can talk. Of course, they hope to keep Alvarez – Atlético very much want to continue working with Alvarez – but if Alvarez asks to leave, they know Arsenal are there. Therefore, the decision is entirely in Alvarez's hands. Everyone should not underestimate the potential for him to join Arsenal."

Manchester United Ready to Recruit in Final Days of Summer Window: Targeting New Left-Back and Striker Options

"Finally, Manchester United. Friends, I think Manchester United will be very busy in the final four or five days of the transfer window. I can assure you that Manchester United are still actively seeking solutions at left-back. Manchester United are trying to bring in a new left-back. I wouldn't be surprised if they ultimately recruit a player who can pretty much guarantee immediate impact. Perhaps not a superstar like Balde – they did consider Balde and called Jorge Mendes a week ago, but the transfer fee and wages for that deal were too expensive, and Manchester United won't pursue it at least for now."

"I'll inform everyone if there are developments later. But as a comparison, do you remember when Manchester United loaned Reguilón from Tottenham? It might be that type of recruitment. I'm not saying it's Reguilón specifically, but rather an experienced left-back who can provide competition within the team and has high-level international ability. Manchester United are currently looking for this type of option. Therefore, the left-back position is expected to be where Manchester United want to strengthen before the deadline, and I expect them to complete a signing in this position."

"Additionally, there's the striker position. If Zirkzee leaves – Fiorentina are currently pushing hard, as I reported yesterday morning, they've made an official loan offer of €5 million plus a buy clause – and there are more clubs involved. If Juventus re-enter negotiations after selling Canadian striker Jonathan David, or if clubs from other countries join the race, if Zirkzee leaves, Manchester United need to bring in a new striker. Therefore, Manchester United will definitely move in the striker position, depending on Zirkzee's situation."

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