Gabriel: Arsenal open new contract talks with defender after stunning season | OneFootball

@sr_collings|Nizaar Kinsella

Arsenal have opened contract talks with centre-back Gabriel.

The Brazilian’s current deal is due to expire in 2027, but he is set to be rewarded with improved terms after a string of excellent performances this season.

Gabriel has been a regular for Arsenal and has helped the Gunners climb to the top of the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta’s side have the best defensive record in the top flight, largely down to Gabriel’s formidable partnership with fellow centre-back William Saliba.

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Arsenal tied Saliba down to a new contract last summer and they are now looking to do the same with Gabriel.

Talks are underway with the 26-year-old’s representatives and are only at an early stage, but there is confidence Gabriel will extend his stay in north London.

The Brazilian is settled in England with his family, and only Bukayo Saka has played more minutes for Arsenal since Mikel Arteta was hired in December 2019.

Gabriel attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia last summer, but Arsenal showed no interest in letting him go.

The centre-back initially lost his place in the team during the end of the transfer window, however he has won it back to become a regular.

“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 obviously 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.”