Arsenal fend off Saudi interest with star player now in advanced talks to sign new contract
Image Credit: Getty Images
Arsenal fans have reason to celebrate as the club is reportedly in advanced talks to secure a new long-term contract for their star defender, Gabriel Magalhaes.
According to Sami Mokbel, senior football correspondent for BBC Sport, an agreement is close, with negotiations progressing positively. This development is a significant boost for Mikel Arteta’s squad, as Gabriel has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s formidable defense this season.
The Brazilian centre-back, whose current deal runs until 2027, has attracted interest from clubs like Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
READ MORE: FABRIZIO ROMANO REVEALS THE STRIKER ARSENAL ARE IN ‘CONCRETE TALKS’ TO SIGN.
Arsenal are in advanced talks to secure a new long-term contract for their star defender, Gabriel Magalhaes. [Image Credit: Getty Images]However, Gabriel’s commitment to Arsenal remains unwavering, as evidenced by his leadership on the pitch, even donning the captain’s armband during the latter stages of Arsenal’s recent 1-0 victory over Chelsea.
His partnership with William Saliba has been pivotal, with the duo forming one of the Premier League’s most robust defensive pairings. Gabriel’s consistency is underscored by his high minutes played, trailing only David Raya and Saliba this season.
Mokbel’s latest report highlights the optimism surrounding the negotiations. Arsenal’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, has prioritised tying down key players like Gabriel, Bukayo Saka, and William Saliba to avoid potential transfer dilemmas in 2027 when their contracts are set to expire.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Preliminary talks with Gabriel’s representatives began last season, and the current advanced stage reflects Arsenal’s determination to retain their defensive lynchpin.
Despite a recent hamstring injury ruling Gabriel out for the season, his importance to Arteta’s project is undeniable. His performances have earned praise, with teammate Saliba calling him one of the world’s best defenders.
Securing Gabriel’s future would signal Arsenal’s ambition to build a squad capable of challenging for major honors, especially after their defensive solidity helped them boast the Premier League’s best defensive record this season.
As Arsenal navigate a pivotal summer transfer window, locking in Gabriel’s commitment is a statement of intent. Fans will eagerly await official confirmation of the deal, hopeful that their Brazilian star remains at the Emirates for years to come.
NEXT ARTICLE: ARSENAL HANDED MAJOR TRANSFER BOOST AS TOP STRIKER TARGET LEFT OUT OF PRE-SEASON SQUAD
