ARSENAL STAR SET TO RECEIVE HUGE PAY RISE WITH NEW CONTRACT LOOMING

 Arsenal are close to agreeing on a new contract for top star that will see the player’s earnings increase significantly

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes is nearing a new long-term contract extension ahead of the upcoming season. According to The Standard, Arsenal initiated talks with the Brazilian centre-back earlier this year, despite his current contract, which runs until 2027, having been extended in October 2022.

Gabriel is poised to receive improved terms following a standout season, which saw him play a crucial role in Arsenal’s strong defensive performance. The Gunners finished second in the Premier League last season, with Gabriel forming a formidable partnership with fellow centre-back William Saliba. 

This defensive pairing significantly contributed to Arsenal achieving the best defensive record in the top flight.

Arsenal are eager to secure Gabriel’s future, following the extension given to Saliba last summer. Negotiations with the 26-year-old’s representatives are advanced, and there is confidence that he will extend his stay in north London. 

Despite having three years left on his current deal, Arsenal aims to reward Gabriel with a salary increase from £100,000 a week to match his teammates, including Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli, who earn close to £200,000 weekly.

Gabriel has settled well in England with his family and has been a regular feature in the team since Mikel Arteta’s appointment in December 2019. Only Bukayo Saka has played more minutes for Arsenal under Arteta.

Last summer, Gabriel attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, but Arsenal was determined to keep him. Despite initially losing his place in the team towards the end of the transfer window, Gabriel has since regained his spot and continued to be a key player.

“It was tough, obviously at the start. I wanted to play, and it was very difficult for me, but I understood what the coach had to do,” Gabriel told the PA news agency in February. “It is difficult for any player to not be in the team, but now I’m back in, I want to keep on working hard to prove my worth.

“(Arteta) spoke to me and explained the reasons behind the decision. Why I should stay – but the most important thing was to remain focused and concentrate. He knew how important I was to the team, so I’m happy to be back and to be able to help the team in every game. I’m happy to be back in the team and hopefully, I can help them moving forward.”