Arsenal fending off rival interest and securing the signature of Gabriel Magalhaes would be a “big statement”, says Paul Merson, with the Gunners looking to put down early markers in 2020-21.
The north London outfit appear to be leading the chase for a much sought-after centre-half.
A big-money deal is said to be close with Lille, allowing Mikel Arteta to add another player of promise to what has been an area of concern for Arsenal in recent times.
Editors' Picks
They have already welcomed William Saliba onto their books this summer, with the 19-year-old arriving at Emirates Stadium after completing a loan stint at Saint-Etienne.