The agent of Gabriel Magalhaes has revealed the defender has turned down ‘more lucrative offers’ ahead of his impending transfer to Arsenal.
The Lille defender was on his way to London on Monday to complete a medical – which he is said to have passed – ahead of a £27m switch to the Gunners.
The Brazilian centre half has been a man in demand this summer with a host of clubs across Europe interested in signing the 22-year-old, including Manchester United and Napoli.
It is believed the Serie A side matched Arsenal’s bid, but his agent Guilherme Miranda has confirmed the north London side are set to win the race after the player was tempted by the project of boss Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu rather than by the finances involved.
Journalist Freddie Paxton posted quotes from Miranda on Twitter which read: ‘Arsenal was nowhere near the best proposal [money wise].
‘Gabriel chose them over more lucrative offers because Edu convinced us of the project. It’s 100% because of Edu Gaspar and Arteta.’
Magalhaes is set to become Arsenal’s second new Brazilian signing this summer after Willian joined on a free transfer after leaving London rivals Chelsea.
He will however have to undergo a 14-day quarantine period due to the government’s coronavirus restrictions on travel from France once an imminently expected announcement is made by both clubs.
That means he will have to miss the Community Shield clash against Liverpool on Saturday.
Moreover, Arsenal also confirmed the permanent signings of defenders Cedric Soares and Pablo Mari on Monday.
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