Pranav Nair
Representatives of Gabriel Magalhaesin England amidst Manchester United interest
According to Sky Sports (h/t Metro), the representatives of Manchester United target Gabriel Magalhaes are in the UK to negotiate a move for the defender.
We are not the only team in for the Brazilian, with Everton also keen. Despite making Jadon Sancho his top target, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to add a central defender to his squad.
United struck gold when they signed Harry Maguire from Leicester City last summer. The Englishman has since improved the United defence considerably.
However, his lack of pace remains a major concern and has seen him caught out a number of times. United are keen to address this and are looking to partner him alongside a pacy defender.
Not only is Gabriel a pacy player but is also left-footed. This will also allow United to play Maguire, who is right-footed, on the right side of the defence.
The young Brazilian has been a key player for Les Dogues as they finished fourth in Ligue 1. He made 34 appearances this season, scoring one goal.
Unfortunately, it was not enough to see them qualify for the Champions League. He could still feature in the competition if he so moves to Old Trafford.
Gabriel was close to moving to Everton before the lockdown. Despite going far as undergoing a medical, the Merseysiders were unable to strike a deal. With the current campaign almost over, Gabriel will make a decision on his future in the coming days.
Lille completed the signing of 20-year-old defender Sven Botman from Ajax Amsterdam this week. The Dutchman is seen as a potential long-term replacement for Gabriel.
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The Samba star is keen to play in the Premier League and will cost a modest £27m. Whether his dream will come true at United remains to be seen.
Gabriel ticks a number of boxes for United. Not only is he pacy and left-footed but can also be a long-term option for us. More so, his modest fee could be a bargain in the coming years.
Moving to Everton will be a step down for Gabriel. Despite considerable success, the Blues have failed to build a competitive team on the pitch.
Meanwhile, at United, Gabriel can be a part of something special. Solskajer is laying the foundations for a bright future. It is now up to the recruitment team to ensure he gets who he needs.
