Arsenal have reportedly decided to extend the contract of Gabriel Magalhaes. The centre-back’s impressive performances this season have turned him into a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s defensive setup at Emirates.
Arsenal Open Contract Negotiations With Gabriel
Gabriel Contract: A Key Partnership
Gabriel joined Arsenal on a £27 million deal in 2020. Since then, consistent improvement has allowed the former Lille star to develop into one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League.
Gabriel’s partnership with William Saliba has provided Arsenal with incredible defensive stability. The Gunners have conceded only 26 league goals this season, six less than their closest rivals Manchester City.
Speaking to TNT Sports about his partnership with Saliba earlier this week, Gabriel said (via AFCstuff): “Last season we were already good. William got injured, but we were good, and we spoke a lot among ourselves.”
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The Arsenal star added: “This year, we are good even if we change our left-back [or other positions]. I think also there’s been a lot of work, everything that we work on, it’s for defending well. As we play a lot together, we’re understanding each other better and that’s done us good.”
Gabriel’s current contract runs until 2027. However, the Gunners are planning to tie their “terrific” defender down to a new contract.
New Contract Talks
According to Evening Standard, Arsenal have already opened talks with Gabriel over a new contract. The club are willing to reward the 26-year-old with improved terms that correspond to his position in the squad.
After giving Saliba a contract extension last year, Arsenal are now ready to provide his defensive partner with a new deal. However, talks are reported to still be in the early stages.
A Transfer Shift
Arsenal have invested heavily in bolstering their defensive and midfield lines. Gabriel, Ben White, Declan Rice and Jorginho have provided Mikel Arteta with a stable base to implement his tactical ideas.
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However, the Gunners are expected to shift their attention toward signing a new striker this summer. Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Brentford’s Ivan Toney have remained on the club’s radar, while a move for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak seems unlikely after Eddie Howe’s recent remarks. Another serious target is Sporting Lisbon’s Victor Gyokeres, whose agent has reportedly opened negotiations with several interested clubs.
