Manchester United face stiff competition from Arsenal in the race to sign Gabriel Magalhaes from Lille, reports claim.
Gabriel finds himself on the Red Devils’ radar amid interest from a number of European clubs this summer with Arsenal among them.
According to Goal, Lille still haven’t decided where his future lies, and he is currently considering his options ahead of a potential move.
It is understood that the Ligue 1 club want at least £25m for the highly-rated centre-back.
Recent reports had suggested that the Red Devils were close to completing a deal for the defender but this doesn’t seem to be the case.
While Man United have made contact with his agent, Fabrizio Romano revealed they are not in talks with Lille at the moment.
https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1291202395628810243?s=20
The Italian transfer expert tweeted that Arsenal are ahead of their fierce rivals as they have started discussions with Les Dogues to sort out a deal, while Napoli remain interested but are waiting to see what will happen with United’s other defensive target, Kalidou Koulibaly.
It is common knowledge that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to sign a centre-back to play alongside Harry Maguire at the back, as Victor Lindelof has struggled for consistency, and Eric Bailly has barely played at all.
The 22-year-old Brazilian is exactly the sort of player he needs to bring to Old Trafford this summer.
Gabriel, who has been described by Lille president Gerard Lopez as an “absolute machine,” has the pick of the crop after putting in a string of impressive performances at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy last term.
United are a more attractive option than Arsenal, as Solskjaer can offer Champions League football, while their top-flight rivals will have to settle for playing in the Europa League next season.
Admittedly, Mikel Arteta’s side may have an advantage, as Raul Sanllehi worked with Lille chief executive Marc Ingla during their time together at Barcelona, which is believed to have worked in their favour while negotiating for Nicolas Pepe.
Ed Woodward will have his work cut out as it seems as though the centre-back has dropped a huge hint on social media. However, there are bound to be plenty of twists and turns as the transfer saga continues to unfold in the coming days.
United fans, do you think Woodward will sign Gabriel this summer? Let us know down below!
