According to a recent report by The Daily Express, Manchester United are prepared to enter the race for LOSC Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes this summer. The same source has also mentioned that the Red Devils are eager to find an ideal centre-back partner for Harry Maguire and have set their sights on the Brazilian talent ahead of the summer transfer window. However, it is understood that the Mancunian outfit could face some fierce competition from Napoli, Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle United and Wolves in pursuit of the Ligue 1 sensation in this off-season (via The Daily Express).
Gabriel’s Impressive Form In The Recently Concluded Ligue 1 Campaign
The 22-year-old enjoyed a solid season at Stade Pierre Mauroy after establishing himself as a regular feature at the heart of Christophe Galtier’s backline. He featured in 34 matches for the French outfit last season, scoring one goal across all competitions.
On the defensive end, Gabriel has averaged 1.8 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 3.3 clearances per game in the Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League this season. He has also been quite accurate with his ball-distribution as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 82.2% in league football so far (stats via whoscored).
The Sao Paulo-born talent has also represented Brazil at the Under-20 level, but is yet to make a senior appearance for his country. Maybe a switch to the Premier League this summer could give him a more prominent platform to showcase his quality and catch the attention of Brazil boss Tite ahead of next year’s Copa America.
What Will The Brazilian Defender Bring To The Theatre Of Dreams?
Gabriel is often quick to read the danger and can pull off some vital interceptions and last-gasp clearances for his side. He has proven himself to be a reliable defender at the back for Lille this season which has raised his stock in European football. The Brazilian youngster can use his incredible upper body strength to outmuscle the opposition and can command his penalty area with authority and conviction. However, there are some question marks over whether he has what it takes to cope with the high intensity of Premier League football week in week out if the Red Devils manage to land him this summer.
Is Gabriel The Right Choice For The Red Devils?
A promising defender of Gabriel’s defensive prowess will be an excellent signing for Man United before the start of the new campaign. He will not only add more stability and variety to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s backline, but also enhance the quality of his first-team. The Brazilian will provide some healthy competition for the likes of Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly, Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones in the race to secure a regular starting berth alongside Harry Maguire at Old Trafford next season.
All in all, it makes sense for the Red Devils to splash the cash on Gabriel as he will be a brilliant addition to their squad in the long-run and would help Man United bridge the gap to Liverpool and Manchester City at the summit of English football.
