Martinelli and stars who could leave the Premier League before transfer deadline day
By Luke Oluoch, August 24, 2026A number of top Premier League stars could be moving within the league or departing altogether as the final week of the transfer window unfolds.
Arsenal and Brazilian ace Gabriel Martinelli is among the players who could make a move, with departures in and out of Premier League clubs expected to dominate the closing days.
The Saudi giants have already made official club-to-club contact with Arsenal. The Brazilian winger was not part of Arsenal’s opening-day victory and is understood to be open to leaving for the Saudi Pro League side.
Besides, Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and Ethan Nwaneri could also depart the Emirates, with potential suitors circling. The Gunners are said to be willing to part ways with the former, though they would also welcome loan offers for Nwaneri, the promising English winger who spent last season on loan at Marseille.
Enzo Fernandez
City’s pursuit of Enzo Fernandez, which was initially hinged upon developments surrounding Rodri, but there is a huge possibility of the Cityzens stepping up the chase even after failing to submit an offer to the Blues before the 5:00 pm British time Friday, August 14, 2026 deadline imposed by the West London club.
Enzo Maresca’s team agreed to terms with Lille for French-born Moroccan star Ayyoub Bouaddi on Sunday, August 23, 2026, but the potential departure of Nico Gonzales makes the possibility for the club renewing interest in Enzo.
Ollie Watkins
The English centre forward was omitted from Unai Emery’s matchday squad for Sunday’s chastening 4-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion as he considers a move to Al-Hilal.
Watkins represented England at the 2026 World Cup and helped Villa clinch the Europa League trophy last season.
The Midlands club have already sold Ezri Konsa, Morgan Rogers, Lucas Digne, and Youri Tielemans, while Emiliano Martínez is also expected to move on.
Nicolas Jackson
The Senegalese striker has been the subject of a protracted move away from the London club. Several European powerhouses remain interested, though Spanish La Liga side Atlético Madrid and Premier League rivals Aston Villa appear to be the most likely destinations.
According to an update from Fabrizio Romano, the Blues are keen to move on from the Senegalese star, with their focus set on a permanent deal.