William Saliba reacts to Arsenal’s huge Gabriel Magalhaes announcement

Arsenal have been desperately trying to tie Gabriel Magalhaes down to an extended deal and William Saliba has reacted after a massive development.

Since his move from Lille in the summer of 2020, the Brazilian has developed into one of the best centre-backs in world football.

Last season, the 27-year-old was forced to sit on the sidelines for a spell after sustaining a hamstring injury, and the Gunners’ form suffered as a result.

During Gabriel’s absence, Arsenal were beaten by PSG in the Champions League semi-final, ensuring that they would once again end a campaign trophyless.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
Credit: Hasan Karim, Breaking Media

Gabriel commits his future to Arsenal

Arsenal have been planning to offer Gabriel a new contract for a number of months now, and they have finally ensured that the centre back will be staying at the Emirates.

The Gunners have confirmed a deal with the Brazilian that will see him remain in North London until 2029, adding two years to the original agreement.

GamesGoalsAssists
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Gabriel’s Premier League stats 2024/25

On Instagram, the official Arsenal account announced the news, sharing a photo of Gabriel signing his new contract, with the caption: “Gabriel is here to stay. Our number 6 has committed his future to The Arsenal.”

Centre-back partner William Saliba, who is the subject of Real Madrid interest, liked the post to show his delight at the news.

Arsenal set for striker decision

Football Insider Verdict

After ensuring the future of one of their current star players, Arsenal can begin concluding deals that will add quality to Mikel Arteta’s squad.

The Gunners’ main priority this summer is to bring in a striker, after Arteta was forced to shoehorn Mikel Merino in at centre forward last season, as a result of a number of injuries.

Arsenal are in advanced talks with Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, as well as Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, with the North London club expected to complete the framework of both deals before deciding which player to bring in.

Sesko scored 13 Bundesliga goals in the 2024/25 campaign, while Gyokeres found the net 39 times during his 33 appearances in the Portuguese league.

There will be a weight of expectation on the shoulders of whoever the Gunners decide to bring in, with Arsenal fans expecting their new centre forward to fire them to Premier League glory.