Arsenal star emerges as target for La Liga giants Barcelona

Arsenal defender Gabriel has emerged as a target for La Liga giants Barcelona, according to reports in Spain. 

As per Sport, the Brazilian is being considered by Barcelona as a possible candidate to bolster their options at centre back, as manager Xavi looks to build a side to challenge for the top flight title once again next season.

The 24-year-old only arrived in London in 2020, but has established himself as a regular in central defence for Mikel Arteta’s side, partnering Ben White this season since the Englishman’s arrival from Brighton and Hove Albion.

Gabriel has started every single Premier League game for the Gunners since September, but it now appears they have a battle on their hands to keep hold of the player, with Barcelona circling.

Barcelona’s search for a central defender has been well documented, and they have reportedly already agreed a deal with Andreas Christensen that will see the Dane join the Spanish side when his current Chelsea deal ends in the summer.

Gabriel has established himself as one of Arteta’s first choice pairing at the back

Barca also made contact with Cesar Azpilicueta before he penned a new one year deal with the Blues, and are also believed to be eyeing a deal to land Antonio Rudiger if he doesn’t pledge his immediate future to the club.

The Spanish side’s priority is signing a left-footed centre-back, and the possibility of signing Gabriel has already been discussed by the club’s hierarchy, according to the report.

Notably for Gunners fans, the report does also suggest that the Catalan giants would be willing to consider a swap deal to land Gabriel, with Memphis Depay, Riqui Puig and Neto, who the London side tried to sign in 2020, all candidates to be offered.

Arsenal are believed to be considering offering Gabriel an improved contract as a reward for his strong performances of late.