Arsenal are ‘optimistic’ about a move for Lille defender Gabriel Magalhães, who could sign a five-year deal at the Emirates.
That’s according to journalist Ignazio Genuardi, who says the defender’s potential move to Napoli has been delayed by their failure to sell Kalidou Koulibaly.
Gabriel has long been linked with a move to the Premier League, with Everton having chased his signature for several months.
However, recent rumours have indicated that Arsenal could be his next destination with Mikel Arteta keen to add a left-footed centre back to his squad this summer.
Indeed, a deal seemed to be progressing quickly, with reports this week indicating that they are willing to pay €30m to make a deal happen.
Genuardi backs up the claims that Arsenal are interested, stating the player ‘could commit’ to a five-year deal with the club.
He explains Napoli were leading the race for his signature, but the move is ‘blocked’ until they can sell Koulibaly.
Du côté du Napoli, on estime que le Brésilien a été bloqué, mais les Gunners sont optimistes (Sokratis, Holding et Mustafi pourraient notamment partir en charnière), Everton ayant d’ores et déjà rendu les armes.
— Ignazio Genuardi (@IgnazioGenuardi) August 19, 2020
The Italian side believe they have also blocked off any rivals but Arsenal are ‘optimistic’, particularly if they manage to get rid of either Sokratis, Holding or Mustafi.
Everton also get a mention, with the journalist stating that they have ‘already surrendered’ their interest – in other words, they’ve given up their pursuit of the Brazilian.
That is presumably because of other clubs being interested in him, with Arsenal and Napoli now battling for his signature instead.
