Arsenal are heading into a defining summer transfer window, with major decisions looming over their squad. As they struggle to keep up in the Premier League title race, sitting 15 points behind leaders Liverpool, the Gunners are in desperate need of reinforcements. However, financial constraints and interest from Saudi Arabia in one of their key players could force them into a tough call.
Al-Nassr’s Push for Gabriel Magalhães
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi club, Al-Nassr, has set its sights on Arsenal’s Brazilian center-back, Gabriel Magalhães. Reports indicate that the club is prepared to offer the 27-year-old a lucrative contract worth up to £16 million per year—far exceeding his current £100,000-a-week wages at Arsenal.
Al-Nassr representatives have reportedly reached out to Gabriel’s camp, sparking uncertainty over his future at the Emirates. With two years left on his current contract, Arsenal now face a crucial decision: cash in on the defender for a substantial fee or negotiate an extension to keep him in North London.
Arsenal’s Transfer Dilemma
Mikel Arteta is keen to revamp his squad, and a new striker remains the top priority. Injuries have left Arsenal without a reliable No. 9, and Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has emerged as their primary target. The Gunners also explored a late move for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, keeping him on their shortlist for the summer.
However, financial fair play (FFP) regulations and the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) limit Arsenal’s ability to make big-money signings without offloading key players. Selling Gabriel for a fee in the region Transfer of £100 million could provide the financial boost needed to fund a marquee signing up front. But losing a crucial defensive figure poses risks, especially with the club aiming to challenge on multiple fronts next season.
Contract Uncertainty for Key Superstars
Gabriel isn’t the only player Arsenal must make a decision on. Bukayo Saka and William Saliba, both integral to the club’s future, are in a similar contract situation. Their deals run until 2027, but with the market value of young, top-tier players skyrocketing, Arsenal must ensure they don’t fall into the same predicament Liverpool faces with Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil van Dijk—all of whom could leave on a free transfer in the near future.
Arsenal’s incoming sporting director, Andrea Berta, will need to carefully balance the club’s priorities. Extending contracts for Gabriel, Saka, and Saliba would secure the club’s long-term foundation but could limit their ability to invest in new signings. On the flip side, sacrificing Gabriel could generate the funds necessary to address their attacking deficiencies.
Saudi Spending Power and Arsenal’s Leverage
Saudi Pro League clubs have shown a willingness to spend big, and Al-Nassr’s pursuit of Gabriel is no exception. If Arsenal play their cards right, they could leverage the interest from the Middle East to maximize their return. With Saudi clubs financially unconstrained, a £100 million asking price is unlikely to deter them.
The question remains: Should Arsenal cash in and strengthen their attack, or should they prioritize squad stability by keeping Gabriel?
What Comes Next?
With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Arsenal’s decision on Gabriel could shape their ambitions for the 2025/26 season. Arteta and Berta must weigh the risks of losing a key defender against the potential reward of landing a world-class striker.
One thing is certain: Arsenal’s summer plans Transfer hinge on this defining £100 million dilemma.
