Journalist Charles Watts is delighted to hear that Arsenal are now working to extend one player’s stay at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal have been proactive when it comes to extending player contracts in recent years.
The Gunners were once behind the curve in this regard, and suffered in the transfer market as a consequence. However, journalist David Ornstein has since praised Arsenal for the revolution in their approach to managing contracts.
As such, it is unsurprising to hear rumours that the North London club are currently actively trying to tie down Gabriel Magalhaes to a new deal.
Charles Watts reacts to rumour of new Arsenal contract for Gabriel Magalhaes
The Brazilian centre-back still has plenty of time left to run on his current contract, but his reputation has certainly been enhanced by his imperious form this season, and offering him new terms which reflect his contribution over the course of this campaign will serve to both make him feel valued as an individual, and help to ward off any potential suitors.
Charles Watts has now has now shared his thoughts on these rumoured contract discussions. Speaking on his Inside Arsenal YouTube channel, the reporter said “I’m really happy to hear this, it makes absolutely perfect sense.
“The fact that these talks have been opened, and they are discussing things, sounds like really good planning from Edu and the contracts team. Hopefully, the early positive signs continue to progress and that deal will be done relatively quickly.”
How important is Gabriel Magalhaes to Arsenal?
Gabriel has been a rock at the back for the Gunners this season. Arsenal boast the best defensive record in the top flight of English football, and he has been a huge factor in that solidity, alongside William Saliba in the heart of the rearguard.
Gabriel and Saliba have been hailed as the best centre-back pairing in the Premier League, and for good reason. Saliba has even named Gabriel as the division’s best centre-back in his own right.
It would be a huge boost for Mikel Arteta if the 26-year-old were to pen a new deal. Arsenal will be keen to keep him and the Frenchman alongside one another at back for as long as they possibly can.
In the meantime, though, the 6-cap Brazil international’s full focus will be on finishing this season as strongly as possible. Arsenal remain in the Premier League title race, and no contract negotiations can be allowed to distract from matters on the pitch at this stage.