Report: Arsenal will need to move quickly for Gabriel Magalhaes, Napoli keen on him as Koulibaly replacement

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Arsenal could be forced to speed up their pursuit of Lille defender, Gabriel Magalhaes, with a report from UOL claiming that Napoli are intensifying their efforts to land the Brazilian.

The Gunners had appeared to be in the driving seat this week to land Gabriel, a move which would have brought a conclusion to months of speculation surrounding his future.

However, this latest report suggests Napoli are now prowling around the 22-year-old with intent. It is believed the Naples club are becoming more and more resigned to losing Kalidou Koulibaly. Gabriel, then, is seen as the ideal replacement.

The Italian giants have already spent big at Lille this summer, landing Victor Osimhem. The Nigerian striker will have, no doubt, put a strong word in when it comes to Gabriel’s talents.

The classy defender is one of a number of players Mikel Arteta wants this summer at Arsenal. Goal claims that any deal will cost around £25m, meaning Arsenal may well see Gabriel within their price structure.

A spanner in the works, this would be a big blow for the Gunners – TBR View

It looked all week like Gabriel was on his way to north London. Hints on social media, reports from various outlets, all suggesting he was keen on making the move to the PL.

However, Napoli holds drawing power as well. Furthermore, his former teammate Osimhen is already there and could well be having a say-so.

This would be a huge shame for Arsenal if they were to miss out. At 22, he fits the profile of everything Mikel Arteta wants, while also having the quality to step into the English game with ease.