Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is eager to add a new centre-back to his ranks and according to various sources, Brazilian U23 international, Gabriel Magalhaes could be that man.
The 22-year-old moved to Lille from Brazilian side Avai FC in January of 2017 for a fee of just £2.7 million and according to the latest reports, the French side are ready to part ways with him this summer.
Arsenal and Napoli have both seen their bids accepted for Gabriel Magalhaes which is a really positive sign for Mikel Arteta who is badly in need of a world-class centre-back.
talkSPORT quotes Le10 Sport saying: “Arsenal have reportedly had a bid accepted for Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes.
“Le10Sport claim the Gunners and Napoli have both had offers of £27million plus bonuses accepted and are now waiting on a decision from the player.
“Napoli have led the race for Gabriel for some time and the Gunners will have a fight on their hands to convince the 22-year-old his next destination should be north London.”
This will be a great boost for Arteta since Arsenal’s wobbly defence has been one of the key reasons why the Gunners have not been able to finish in the top four of the Premier League table this past season.
The likes of Mustafi, David Luiz and Rob Holding have been really poor while Pablo Mari has hardly played since joining the side.
So getting someone like Gabriel Magalhaes which surely add depth to the backline for Arsenal but Napoli firmly stand in their way and there’s a big chance the 22-year-old could be heading to the Serie A next season.
Mikel Arteta does not have much to offer Gabriel Magalhaes expect from regular playing time in the first XI but Napoli have also failed to qualify for the Champions League next season which is a plus for the North London side.
