Arsenal 'open contract talks' with key central defender

Arsenal have reportedly opened contract talks with centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes.

The Brazilian proved decisive in Sunday's 1-0 Premier League away win over Arsenal's North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Gabriel rose high in the box to head home from Bukayo Saka's 64th-minute corner, with his effort proving enough to seal three precious points.

The Brazilian may have played a pivotal role in the final third on Sunday, but it is his consistent performances at the opposite end of the pitch that makes him a valuable member of Mikel Arteta's squad.

Gabriel is one of the first names on Arteta's teamsheet, having established a formidable central-defensive pairing with William Saliba.

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Arsenal open Gabriel contract talks

Due to Gabriel's importance to the Arsenal backline, the club's hierarchy are seemingly keen to secure his long-term future.

According to Football Insider, the Gunners have opened negotiations with the Brazil international over a new contract.

Arsenal view the defender as one of their most prized assets and are keen to tie him down to a new longer-term deal.

The report stresses that contract talks are still at an early stage and that nothing 'concrete' has been agreed between player and club.

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When does Gabriel's current contract expire

Although Arsenal want to agree fresh terms, they are under no immediate pressure to strike an agreement over a new deal.

The 26-year-old is currently under contract until the summer of 2027 after signing his most recent deal in October 2022.

Having started all four of Arsenal's matches this season, Gabriel is expected to feature in the lineup for Thursday's Champions League opener against Atalanta BC.

Once the Gunners return from Bergamo, they will turn their focus to a highly-anticipated encounter with Premier League champions Manchester City.