Barcelona are rumoured to be preparing a bid for Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes when the summer transfer window opens but the Gunners don’t want to sell the player.
Could Arsenal Defender Gabriel Magalhaes Move to Spain?
Barcelona Want Arsenal Centre Back
Barcelona are targeting Gabriel Magalhaes as Xavi looks to continue to rebuild his squad at the Nou Camp. The Barcelona manager indicated the 24-year-old is a target. Magalhaes, however, is integral to Arsenal and Mikel Arteta’s plans. Barcelona need to search for a left-footed centre back, as Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet appear to be leaving at the end of the season.
According to football.london Magalhaes is the top target as a replacement, however, the North London side will be fending off any offers for Magalhaes. Arteta knows how important the Brazilian is to his plans, and will move heaven and earth to keep the centre back.
Magalhaes has had such an impact to the squad since arriving, Arsenal have a strong defensive line. With Gabriel involved, the Gunners have kept 12 clean sheets this season. This is something only bettered by Liverpool and Manchester City. It is clear to see why Arteta is desperate to hang onto the Brazilian.
Could Barcelona tempt Gabriel away? It’s possible. However, it would be a risk as the Spanish side would need to outlay a very substantial fee. Gabriel is likely to be offered a new contract by Arsenal, to try and keep him.
Barcelona could offer a fee and players as a swap deal, this won’t appeal to Arteta though. Unless the players are of the same quality and ability as Gabriel. Although the Spanish side are keen, the Gunners are less so. But the final decision will be down to Gabriel.
If Arsenal offer the Brazilian a new contract that is appealing, he stays. Arteta will do everything in his power to hold onto the centre back and will decline any and all offers coming in during the summer transfer window. Barcelona are unlikely to sign Gabriel, despite being the top target.
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