Gabriel Magalhaes has admitted that he feels "at home" at Arsenal amid reports that Barcelona are interested in signing him this summer.
Reports emerged in Spain on Tuesday claiming that La Blaugrana was interested in signing the 24-year-old as Xavi continued his rebuild at the Nou Camp. With both Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umitit likely to leave this summer, the five-time Champions League winners are expected to be on the hunt for a left-footed centre back, and football.london understands that Gabriel is at the top of that list.
Arsenal are understood to be aware of the situation, but they are not expected to entertain offers for a player who Mikel Arteta views as integral to his project in north London. Luckily, Arsenal fans can take comfort in the fact that he's settled at the Emirates.
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"Well, in my first season, I certainly learnt a lot," Gabriel told Premier League Productions, as cited by the Evening Standard when asked to sum up his time at Arsenal so far. "It's been a real challenge here, and I am more and more settled every day. I feel better and better with each passing game. At the same time, we know we all can't be perfect in every match. We do make mistakes.
"But I feel good, I feel at home at Arsenal. It's a great squad to be a part of, and together I am sure we can achieve a lot. I am very happy here."
The Brazilian has insisted that he's focused on helping the Gunners achieve their goal of qualifying for the Champions League this season. Arsenal have had a major dip in form over the past week, losing to both Crystal Palace and Brighton. The defeats have gifted arch-rivals Tottenham control in the race for the top four, but Gabriel believes Arsenal can pip them to the position come the end of the season.
"Reaching the top four is our aim, but we know how tough it will be," Gabriel added. "It's a big challenge, but I do believe we can get there. We are working hard, and it's the target we want to achieve. We have to stick together. We need to be focused to get good results."
