Arsenal ‘Close to Agreeing’ Contract Terms with 26-year-old Defender – Report | OneFootball

Arsenal and Gabriel Set to Commit Future Together Amid Contract Talks

Arsenal appear to be on the brink of securing a crucial piece of their defensive puzzle for the long term, with negotiations for a new contract for Gabriel Magalhães reaching an advanced stage. As reported by Sky Sports, the Brazilian defender is close to agreeing terms that will keep him in North London well beyond his current deal, which runs until 2027.

Long-Term Faith in Gabriel Evident from New Deal

Gabriel has been an instrumental figure in Mikel Arteta’s evolution of the Arsenal defence. The 26-year-old centre-back made 42 appearances during the 2024/25 season before a hamstring injury sidelined him for the final 12 matches. According to Sky Sports, he “is expected to be fit for the start of the 2025/26 campaign” — a major boost to Arsenal’s hopes of mounting another title challenge.

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Sources suggest that the club are eager to reward Gabriel’s consistency and commitment by locking him down to improved terms, despite him already being under contract for another two seasons. This move signals Arsenal’s strategic desire to retain key talent amid growing interest from elite European sides.

Gabriel’s Growing Influence at Arsenal

Since arriving from Lille in 2020, Gabriel has forged a formidable partnership with William Saliba, forming one of the most reliable defensive duos in the Premier League. His aerial dominance, left-footed balance, and aggressive defending have made him a cornerstone of Arteta’s tactical framework.

One source close to the negotiations revealed to Sky Sports that “talks are progressing and an agreement is reportedly close”. Such language suggests there is optimism within the club hierarchy that an announcement could follow before pre-season preparations commence.

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Although Gabriel’s recent injury absence was notable, his form prior to that was exceptional. Arsenal conceded fewer goals than any team during the period Gabriel was an ever-present in the backline, a testament to his impact and leadership.

Arteta’s Defensive Blueprint Taking Shape

Locking down Gabriel is more than a routine contract extension. It represents another step in Arteta’s vision of creating a team built on resilience and consistency. With Declan Rice now settled, Jurrien Timber expected to return from injury, and Ben White’s contract recently extended, keeping Gabriel is another cog secured in the machine.

Arsenal have learned from past mistakes, where key players were allowed to run down their contracts. By proactively securing Gabriel, the Gunners are not only avoiding a repeat of history but also reinforcing squad harmony and morale ahead of another demanding season.

What This Means for Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy

Tying Gabriel down early in the summer window could allow Arsenal to shift focus onto other pressing matters, such as midfield depth and forward reinforcements. It also sends a clear signal to the rest of Europe: Arsenal are serious about building a team for sustained success.

Moreover, by locking in a player who is not only experienced but entering his prime years, Arsenal maintain continuity without having to spend heavily on another centre-back in a notoriously inflated market.

As one insider told Sky Sports, “Gabriel is expected to be fit for the start of the 2025/26 campaign”. That bodes well, as Arsenal look to make a strong start in a season where the margins at the top are thinner than ever.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From the perspective of an Arsenal supporter, this development is exactly the kind of news that builds excitement heading into the off-season. Gabriel has been nothing short of immense in his role alongside Saliba, and the two have arguably been the league’s best centre-back pairing when fully fit.

Despite missing the final stretch of the season, Gabriel’s importance can’t be overstated. His recovery pace, reading of the game, and comfort on the ball make him irreplaceable in Arteta’s system. Knowing that he’s on the verge of committing his best years to the club gives fans renewed belief that the project is not just viable but maturing into a genuine era of success.

From a club culture point of view, the proactive nature of this contract renewal also inspires confidence. It signals that Arsenal are acting decisively, valuing their key assets, and ensuring internal stability. For fans, seeing the club operate with this level of professionalism and ambition is a welcome change from the years of reactive decision-making.

Assuming Gabriel returns fully fit, his presence in the opening fixtures of the new campaign will be as reassuring as any new signing. Arsenal fans have every reason to be pleased.