Since missing out on the top four, Mikel Arteta is eager to bolster his squad this summer, and a new striker is a priority after Alexandre Lacazette joined Lyon on a free transfer after his contract expired.
In recent weeks, Gabriel has been widely identified as Arteta’s major target in the media, with the Brazilian international poised to leave Man City after refusing to sign a new contract.
The 25-year-old’s current contract expires in a year, and he knows he’s dropped down the pecking order since City signed Norwegian sensation Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund.
After failing to qualify for the Champions League next season, Arsenal feared they would lose Gabriel, but according to The Times, the midfielder wants to move at the Emirates Stadium despite offers from Chelsea and Tottenham.
Arsenal is close to agreeing a deal, according to the Times, after submitting a formal offer. The initial bid is less than City’s £50 million asking price, but the publication reports that Arsenal is preparing to make an upgraded offer and is growing more confident that a deal can be reached.
Gabriel scored 13 goals and added 12 assists for Man City last season, and he could contribute to the team’s goal threat this season. He’ll fit in nicely with Arteta’s style because the South American is known for his hard work off the ball.
The two men are well acquainted from their time at City, and it appears that they will be reunited at Arsenal this summer. Gabriel can play anywhere in the front three, providing Arteta with a diverse option in the last third.
Tielemans also a target
Arsenal are also looking for a new midfielder to compete with Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey, and according to The Times, they are optimistic of landing Youri Tielemans from Leicester City.
The Belgian international is in his final year at the King Power Stadium and is searching for a fresh challenge. According to the Leicester Mercury, Arsenal are hoping to reach an agreement on a move at roughly £25 million, which would be a steal for a player of his caliber.
Tielemans has been a key player for Leicester since joining from Monaco in 2019, but he appears to be on his way out this summer, and he’d make a great addition to Arteta’s side.
We’ll have to wait and watch how these transactions progress in the coming weeks, but it would be fantastic business for Arsenal if Gabriel and Tielemans could be signed for a combined £75 million this summer.
