Arsenal had reportedly failed in signing Lille star Gabriel Magalhaes during the January transfer window.
Mikel Arteta was firm on strengthening his central defence after Calum Chambers injury and was vying Gabriel as a potential candidate alongside the big names Nathan Ake, Jerome Boateng and John Stones.
The Gunners did secure two deals in signing Pablo Mari for long term and Cedric Soares on a six-month loan on deadline day.
According to Le 10 Sport, Lille defender Gabriel was also a firm target but after consistent denial from Lille, the deal did not go through.
All the proposals were rejected by Lille who were also getting requests from Everton on the centre-back. The 22-year-old’s value put in by Lille did not match up the amount both the teams were willing to pay.
Gabriel Magalhaes has extended his stay with Lille until 2023 but requests from the big clubs will be inevitable for such young talent. If both the clubs remain interested until summer which they surely will, Gabriel would get a higher amount than expected.
Mikel Arteta, however, showed no interest in being keen for the youngster and said that he was contented with Mari and Soares.
On Mari, the Spaniard said: ‘For me he is very important he balances what I want to do from the backline, he gives us more options, more solutions and opens up the pitch more. ‘He is a player we have been following for a few months and we are delighted to have him here.’
Asked about Soares, Arteta added: ‘He is a player who has big experience, he’s played in this country and in different leagues. ‘He knows what it means. He has been very willing to go to another top club. He has that desire and that commitment. ‘I followed him a few seasons ago and I really like what he can bring and it was the right conditions for us as well to try and improve the squad.’
The Gunners may have missed on one impactful signing this transfer window but have done enough to sign two strong contenders at the defensive quadrant. Having said that, Gabriel is not gone off the list and may well be seen penning the contract this June.
