Arsenal: Despite not starting, Mikel Arteta values defender at £170m+

Mikel Arteta has made some questionable lineup selections to begin Arsenal’s 2023/24 Premier League campaign. Alas, those lineup selections have prevailed regardless and now the Spanish manager is looking forward to get back to action after the international break.

One player who seems to have found his way back into the lineup is defender Gabriel Magalhaes. In the first three matches of the season, the Brazilian found himself on the bench and fans had no idea why. Mikel Arteta insisted it was for tactical reasons and in fairness, starting Thomas Partey as a full-back meant that one defender had to be sacrificed.

In the most recent match against Manchester United, though, Gabriel started the match. Not only did he start, but he was one of the best players on the pitch as he made Manchester United’s new signing Rasmus Hojlund redundant. Surely his solid performance will make Mikel Arteta consider him for contention going forward.

Arsenal: Mikel Arteta values Gabriel at more than £171.5m

Indeed, Mikel Arteta is a big fan of Gabriel. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal were not willing to accept even £171.5m for the 25-year-old. This position comes about due to the heavy interest from Saudi clubs for Gabriel.

Certainly, Gabriel is highly valued at Arsenal. Last season, he was one of the best defenders in the league as his partnership with William Saliba made the Gunners almost unbreakable. While all the plaudits go to Granit Xhaka for improving the most last season, I think we shouldn’t overlook the upgrades which Arteta has made to Gabriel.

How much do you think Gabriel Magalhaes is worth in today’s market?