Lille centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes was left “stunned” by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s determination to sign the Brazilian defender, according to reports.
The 22-year-old looks set to complete a move to the Gunners, if reports are to be believed, and it appears that Arteta played a key role in this.
Napoli also agreed a deal, but Gabriel was so impressed with the Spaniard’s role in the transfer, that he has now elected to move to the Emirates Stadium.
Gabriel was shocked, in a good way, by Arteta’s pure determination to ensure he chooses Arsenal as his next destination, according to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport.
The publication states that the Gunners have kept “constant contact” with Gabriel over the last few weeks to try and convince him.
That seems to have worked, despite a late push from Manchester United, who have now stalled, according to the Independent.
The Times are reporting that Gabriel has already completed his medical with Arteta’s side and is set to sign a five-year contract in a deal worth up to £27million.
The defender played 24 games for Lille last season in Ligue 1, scoring the one goal, and helping them to a fourth-place finish.
