Real Madrid are still exploring their options in defence following a long-term injury to Eder Militao, and have now targeted Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes.
That’s according to Daily Mail journalist Simon Jones, who has revealed that Los Blancos are eyeing up the 25-year-old to reinforce the back line, which is now looking light in terms of depth. However, the player is currently not interested in a move away from North London.
“Real Madrid have a genuine interest in Gabriel Maghalaes but the centre-back is happy at Arsenal,” Jones stated in his Transfer Confidential column.
“Eder Militao was ruled out for months last week with a cruciate ligament injury and though Carlo Ancelotti insisted his squad is well stocked for defenders, the Spanish giants have been looking at the market.
“Gabriel was left out of Arsenal’s opening Premier League game against Nottingham Forest amid a backdrop of interest from Saudi Arabian clubs also.
“That interest is there too but the 25-year-old Brazil international is committed to the Arsenal cause as they look to go one step further in the league this season.”
Why do Real Madrid want Gabriel?
Whilst a deal looks unlikely given the player’s preference to stay, it is easy to see why Real Madrid are eyeing up Gabriel.
The Brazil international is a left-footed centre-back and therefore would compete with David Alaba for a starting spot, rather than being a direct replacement for Militao, but stylistically, he is similar to the injured star.
Gabriel is excellent in the air, and plays high up the pitch with Arsenal as a front-footed defender. He played in every single Premier League game for the Gunners last season as his side finished second, and is quickly becoming one of the best defenders in the division.
He could even be a long-term replacement for Alaba, but given that a move may not happen this summer, Real Madrid may have to look elsewhere when they eventually decide to move on from the Austrian veteran.