Mikel Arteta is working hard to strengthen his team ahead of the new season, with a new striker a top priority after Alexandre Lacazette re-joined Lyon on a free transfer after his contract expired.
Gabriel has been tipped as Arsenal’s major target, with Goal reporting that the North Londoners are in advanced talks with Manchester City to finalize a deal for the Brazilian international.
According to the report, both clubs hope to reach an agreement fast, with Goal speculating that after their initial £30 million approach was rejected, Arsenal would make a new offer that will be closer to City’s £50 million valuation once add-ons are factored in.
Gabriel’s agents, according to Goal, are heading in to London to try to finalize the deal as Arsenal looks to sign their top summer transfer target. After working with Gabriel at City, Arteta might finally be reunited with him.
Arsenal are focusing their attention on improving their attacking alternatives, according to the source, and are interested in Raphinha, but have cooled their interest in Youri Tielemans after agreeing to sign Fabio Vieira.
Vieira announcement
Porto announced late last week that a £30 million deal had been reached with Arsenal for the 22-year-old midfielder’s transfer, and Vieira travelled in London on Friday for his medicals.
Following the arrivals of Marquinhos and Matt Turner, the Gunners are expected to announce the transfer within the next 24-48 hours. Vieira will become their third signing of the summer.
Vieira is an aggressive midfielder who will fight with Martin Odegaard for a starting berth, but he can also play as a No. 8 or out wide, which will be a valuable asset for Arteta.
So it appears like Arsenal will have a busy week as they try to finalize agreements worth £80 million, with Gabriel joining Vieira in completing a move to the Emirates Stadium.