Arsenal have lined up moves for a new defender in case of a very significant offer for Gabriel Magalhaes, according to a report.
The Daily Mail report that there’s still some remote uncertainty over whether Gabriel Magalhaes might still leave Arsenal in the current transfer window, amid interest from Saudi Arabia and Real Madrid.
Arsenal’s stance has consistently been that Gabriel isn’t for sale, but the club have been preparing moves for a potential replacement – in case of an offer they can’t refuse.
Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is reportedly among Arsenal’s key targets in that scenario.
On a similar note, The Times report that Arsenal could consider selling Gabriel if they can find a replacement.
James Benge recently reported that Gabriel still has admirers in Saudi Arabia, with a few days left in the summer transfer window.
Whether we see that admiration progress to a serious move for the Brazilian remains to be seen.
John Cross reported earlier this month that Arsenal were aware of the interest in Gabriel, but they’d previously turned away approaches for the centre-back.
Arsenal are reportedly under no pressure to sell, and Cross adds that the fact Jurrien Timber looks set for a lay-off will mean the club are keen that there is no firm bid for Gabriel.
In the past, Arsenal and Gabriel have been clear that they don’t want to part ways. That includes earlier this summer, when Paris Saint-Germain were reportedly considering a move.
Reports suggested then that Gabriel was excited to play in the Champions League with Arsenal, and he wanted to stay at the Emirates Stadium.