Arsenal are moving closer to signing Lille defender, Gabriel Magalhaes.
Chelsea, Everton and Napoli are offering stiff competition for the Brazilian. Lille president, Gerard Lopez admitted that Gabriel will be sold by the end of this week and the player will get to choose his next club.
Mikel Arteta has clearly expressed some optimism regarding the club’s transfers despite rumours of a thin transfer budget for the summer. He has put forth his demands for squad improvements and the Gunners recruitment team have recognized some key targets. Gabriel naturally, is a priority, given how Arsenal’s faulty defence let up in crucial moments this season.
At 21, Gabriel has expressed all the right traits to succeed at the top level. That means moving to the Premier League should not be a big jump for him from the experience he has gathered at Lille. He is quick off the mark, aggressive with his tackling and developing a keen sense of passing from the back.
French publication, La Voix des Sports claimed that Gabriel has already picked his next club and it is Arsenal. The article read – “According to our information, the central defender spoke with representatives of Arsenal earlier this week, and he was particularly sensitive to their speech. He would, therefore, like to join the Gunners, and as quickly as possible. We will know more in the coming days.”
This would be a major sign of intent from Arsenal, who have drawn major doubts from fans and the media alike regarding their transfer ambitions. It will also be a plus in convincing certain star players into staying beyond their current deals. Reports claim that Gabriel’s signature will cost around £30 million.
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