Premier League heavyweights Arsenal are reportedly ready to open talks with 27-year-old Brazilian centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes over a new contract.
According to a report by Football Insider, Gabriel Magalhaes is the subject of interest from Saudi Pro League clubs. However, Arsenal will aim to tie the 14-cap Brazilian international to a new long-term contract. The Gunners are preparing talks over the deal, with Mikel Arteta keen on retaining the core of his squad.
Gabriel Magalhaes and his ever-rising stature
Gabriel Magalhaes has established himself as one of the best defenders in the Premier League since joining Arsenal from LOSC Lille in September 2020. The South American defender was solid in his debut season with the North London club but has scaled new heights since pairing up with William Saliba at the heart of the defence.
The 27-year-old has turned out over 200 times thus far for Arsenal while chipping in with 20 goals and two assists. Gabriel has also made his mark for Brazil and has grown in stature in international football, making 14 appearances for the Selecao.
Meanwhile, Gabriel’s exploits for Arsenal have not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe. In addition, Saudi Pro League clubs are keen on signing the Brazilian international, with recent reports linking him with Al-Nassr. However, Arsenal will aim to tie him to a new long-term contract.
What next?
It is hardly surprising that Saudi Pro League outfits are keen on signing Gabriel Magalhaes in the summer transfer window. Clubs from the competition have regularly attempted to land world-class players in the last few years, with Cristiano Ronaldo kick-starting the trend in 2023. So, the Arsenal defensive mainstay has emerged as a target for Saudi clubs.
However, Arsenal will aim to secure Gabriel’s long-term future, with incoming sporting director Andrea Berta pushing the North London club to keep hold of him. In addition, Mikel Arteta is eager to retain the core of his squad for the long haul as he looks to transform Arsenal into a winning machine across formats.
Considering Gabriel’s importance in Mikel Arteta’s squad, it will be surprising to see him snubbing a new contract. So, with talks over a deal beginning soon, the 14-cap Brazilian international should ideally remain at Arsenal for several seasons.
