Arsenal 'open new contract talks' with in-form defender

Premier League title hopefuls Arsenal have opened talks with Gabriel Magalhaes over a new and improved contract, according to reports.

The 26-year-old has been a standout performer alongside William Saliba in the heart of Arsenal's defence, helping the club to mount a title charge for the second season in a row.

The Gunners currently top the table ahead of bitter rivals Manchester City, though the reigning champions will retain their crown for a fourth season in a row if they win all of their remaining Games. Liverpool are also in contention but saw their hopes of delivering Jurgen Klopp a farewell Premier League title hit by a 2-0 defeat to Merseyside rivals Everton on Wednesday.

Gabriel is already contracted to Arsenal until 2027, but the Evening Standard report that talks are underway with the player's representatives over improved terms.

The Brazilian has made 46 appearances in all comPetitions during 2023/24 – cementing his place alongside Saliba, who has enjoyed an equally impressive campaign – after missing out on selection in the early weeks of the season.

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He arrived in September 2020 from Lille in a deal worth £27m, and signed a new five-year contract two years later after becoming a staple member of Arteta's side.

Should Gabriel ink fresh terms, he'll follow in the footsteps of Saliba, who signed a new deal last July committing his future to Arsenal until 2028, and Ben White, who has earned rave reviews for his performances at right-back.

White committed his future to Arsenal for another four years in March, with his impressive form leading to calls for Gareth Southgate to reinstate him into the England squad for the first time since he returned home early from the 2022 World Cup.

However, Southgate revealed that White had informed him prior to March's internationals that he did not want to be considered for selection. England's loss has very much been Arsenal's gain, with the 26-year-old scoring twice in the crushing 5-0 win over Chelsea on Tuesday.

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