Real Madrid identify Arsenal's Gabriel Magalhaes as Eder Militao replacement?

Real Madrid have reportedly identified Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes as a replacement for the injured Eder Militao.

Los Blancos were dealt a significant blow on the opening weekend of the La Liga season when Militao suffered a serious knee injury.

The 25-year-old was forced off in the opening stages of the second half of Real Madrid's 2-0 victory against Athletic Bilbao.

Later assessment revealed that Militao had sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury, just days after goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois had been sidelined with the same issue.

Courtois's absence forced Real Madrid to delve into the transfer market to sign Kepa Arrizabalaga on a season-long loan deal from Chelsea.

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Carlo Ancelotti recently played down the chance of Real Madrid implementing the same strategy to replace Militao, insisting that the club are well-resourced in central defence.

Although, it appears that Real Madrid have not categorically ruled out the possibility of strengthening their backline.

According to the Daily Mail, the Spanish giants are showing a genuine interest in signing Brazilian defender Gabriel.

In addition to Real Madrid, the Arsenal centre-back has also been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League.

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Gabriel was a regular in the Arsenal side last season, forming a resolute central defensive partnership alongside William Saliba.

However, he has been omitted from the starting lineup for Arsenal's opening two games of the Premier League season, including Monday's away meeting with Crystal Palace.

Despite seemingly losing his place in the side, Gabriel is understood to be happy in North London and is committed to Arsenal for the new season.

The Gunners would also be reluctant to sanction a departure after Jurrien Timber recently suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Gabriel, who is under contract until June 2027, has made a total of 120 appearances for the Gunners, chipping in with 11 goals.