Gabriel rejected bigger offer to join Arsenal

Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes is due in London in the next 48 hours to complete his move to Arsenal.

The Gunners have agreed to part with around £25million to sign the Brazilian and he has agreed personal terms on a long-term contract, which is thought to be for five years.

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As well as Arsenal, Napoli made a concrete approach and there was late interest from Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.

Arsenal have won the race, though, after Gabriel was won over by head coach Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu’s pitch on why he should join them.

The Brazilian was understood to have been able to earn a greater wage elsewhere, but he was convinced to accept Arsenal’s proposal after talks with Arteta and Edu last week.