The article reports that Arsenal’s chief Edu has begun contract negotiations with Gabriel Magalhaes. Last summer, Gabriel attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League. However, Arsenal managed to retain him, and now they are looking to extend his contract. Reports suggest that the President of the Saudi Federation even held a meeting with the defender, but the financial incentives did not persuade Gabriel to leave the Emirates Stadium.
This season, Gabriel has formed a strong partnership with William Saliba at centre-back. Currently, Gabriel’s contract with Arsenal runs until the summer of 2027. Talks for a new contract are in the early stages, as the club’s focus is on the Premier League title run-in. However, discussions are expected to intensify during the summer transfer window.
Several Arsenal players, including Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Ben White, Martin Odegaard, and Saliba, have recently signed new deals. Arsenal’s decision to recruit Gabriel after just one season of regular Ligue 1 football with Lille has paid off handsomely, making the 26-year-old one of the top defenders in the Premier League. Gabriel has started 30 of Arsenal’s 34 league games this season and made two appearances from the substitutes’ bench. With four matches remaining, the Gunners are one point ahead of Manchester City, although City has played one game less.
Gabriel and his teammates are seeking to avenge last season’s painful loss by maintaining their lead in the title race. Their next challenge is a local derby against Tottenham, who would be eager to disrupt Arsenal’s quest for their first Premier League title in two decades.