Transfer Centre

Arsenal 'have no intention of selling Gabriel Magalhaes'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 22 August 2023

Arsenal reportedly have no intention of allowing Gabriel Magalhaes to leave the Emirates Stadium during the summer transfer window.

Arsenal reportedly intend to retain the services of Gabriel Magalhaes during the summer transfer window.

The centre-back has spent the last three seasons at the Emirates Stadium, making a total of 121 appearances in all competitions.

Gabriel was a mainstay of Mikel Arteta's backline during 2022-23 as the Gunners pushed Manchester City all of the way in the Premier League title race.

However, the Brazilian has been surprisingly left out of Arsenal's starting lineups for the opening fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace.

Although the 25-year-old was introduced as a substitute in each match, it appears that the former Lille man has fallen down the pecking order.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta pictured on August 6, 2023 © Reuters

With Arsenal back in the Champions League, there is still scope for Gabriel emerging as a regular in the team as the season progresses.

Nevertheless, there have been suggestions that clubs from Saudi Arabia, in particular Al-Ittihad, and Real Madrid have identified the player as a potential transfer target.

Accepting any offer for a player that still has four years remaining on his contract would inevitably see Arsenal recoup a considerable chunk of the money that has been shelled out on new players in recent weeks.

That said, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal and Arteta are not willing to consider any proposals for Gabriel over the coming days.

Arsenal's William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes pictured in February 2022 © Reuters

Romano says that Arsenal have not even placed an asking price on Gabriel, an indication that they will stick to their current stance for 2023-24.

Arteta has recently seen new arrival Jurrien Timber sustain a serious knee injury, an issue that will keep him sidelined for at least the majority of the season.

Ben White remains in the centre, with Thomas Partey continuing to deputise at right-back, but Gabriel may rekindle his partnership with William Saliba at some stage.

Jakub Kiwior and Rob Holding are also at Arteta's disposal with regards to central defenders, although the duo are behind Gabriel in the competition for places.