Arsenal is reportedly on the verge of finalizing a significant transfer as a new signing has arrived in London for a medical examination, signaling a potential completion of a substantial deal. While the Premier League transfer window officially closed, the North London club appears to be making final adjustments to its squad ahead of the upcoming 2026/27 campaign.

New Signing Undergoes Medical Ahead of Potential Transfer

Images have surfaced online showing Andria Bartishvili arriving in London on Wednesday to undergo his medical with Arsenal. The talented 17-year-old Georgian prospect has reportedly agreed to a five-year contract with the Gunners. Bartishvili, often compared to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, is a versatile player capable of operating as a winger or a creative midfielder.

Despite agreeing to the terms of the transfer, Bartishvili will not officially join the Arsenal first-team squad until he reaches the age of 18 in March 2027. Reports suggest that Arsenal secured his signature by agreeing to a deal valued at €4.5 million (approximately £3.85 million), fending off competition from notable clubs such as Juventus and Liverpool.

Bartishvili has acknowledged the widespread attention surrounding his potential move, sharing a brief message on Instagram: “A very big thank you to everyone for the congratulations.” This indicates a positive reception to his impending transfer to the Emirates Stadium.

Gabriel Martinelli’s Club Record Sale Nears Confirmation

In parallel with the incoming transfer, Arsenal is also nearing the confirmation of a club-record sale involving forward Gabriel Martinelli. The 25-year-old Brazilian is expected to complete a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal shortly.

The transfer fee is reported to be in the region of £55.7 million, with an additional £4.3 million in potential add-ons. Martinelli underwent his medical examination on Wednesday, and according to reports from The Athletic, he is set to sign a four-year contract with the Riyadh-based club.

While the Premier League transfer window closed on September 1st, Saudi Arabian clubs have an extended deadline of September 6th to finalize their deals. This allows for the smooth completion of Martinelli’s transfer, which is anticipated to be officially announced soon.

Martinelli’s Impact at Arsenal

Gabriel Martinelli joined Arsenal in 2019 from the Brazilian fourth tier and has since become a significant figure for the club. During his tenure, he has contributed to Arsenal’s success in winning the FA Cup, the Premier League, and the Community Shield on three occasions.

His statistics for the Gunners are impressive, with 62 goals and 36 assists recorded in 278 appearances across all competitions. Despite initial indications that Martinelli preferred to remain at the Emirates, he has reportedly agreed to the move to Saudi Arabia.

Arsenal’s Summer Transfer Business

Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, oversaw a busy summer transfer window, investing approximately £200 million in five new signings. These acquisitions included:

• Piero Hincapie: Permanent move for £34.5 million.
• Illan Meslier: Signed as a free agent to provide backup goalkeeping.
• Christos Tzolis: Winger signed for £34 million.
• Bruno Guimaraes: Midfielder secured for £75 million.
• Ezri Konsa: Defender acquired in a £55 million deal.

Despite these substantial investments, the club notably failed to secure a marquee forward, a position they were heavily linked with throughout the summer, with names like Vinicius Junior and Julian Alvarez being mentioned.

The club also managed outgoings, with several players departing. These included Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira, Reiss Nelson, and Leandro Trossard. Last summer’s signing, Christian Norgaard, also departed. The imminent club-record sale of Gabriel Martinelli further reshapes the squad.

Looking Ahead to the 2026/27 Season

The arrival of Andria Bartishvili, albeit with a delayed integration into the first team, and the departure of Gabriel Martinelli mark significant movements for Arsenal as the 2026/27 season approaches. The club’s strategy appears to involve both strengthening for the future with young talent and optimizing the squad through significant player sales.

While the focus has been on these late developments, Arsenal’s management will be keen to integrate their new signings and adapt to the departures, aiming to build on their previous successes and compete at the highest level in the upcoming campaign.