Arsenal handed huge contract boost as ‘race’ to sign talent hots up

Arsenal return to action on Sunday when they take on a Southampton side looking to climb the table.

The Gunners sit atop the table, a position they are guaranteed to keep even after this weekend, but they will want to protect - and perhaps even extend - their lead when they face the Saints. Mikel Arteta’s men picked up a narrow win over Leeds United last weekend, and they have since continued their impressive form with a win over PSV in the Europa League.

They now head to the South coast, but before they do, we have taken a look at all the latest transfer news and rumours surrounding the Gunners.

Gabriel contract

Arsenal have been handed a huge boost with Gabriel Maghalaes signing a new contract to commit his future to the Gunners.Gabriel was linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium during the summer with the likes of Juventus linked.

But as Arteta sets about tying down key players to new deals, Gabriel has committed until 2027, and that should end all talk of a transfer. The deal is a huge boost for the Gunners, who continue to build a long-term project.

Vata race

Arsenal are said to be chasing a deal for Celtic youngster Rocco Vata.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Gunners are one of a number of clubs to be eyeing the young midfielder, who is still just 17 years of age. Vata is an Irish youth international, who has been catching the eye during youth games for Celtic.

It’s claimed Arsenal, Manchester City, AC Milan, Juventus and Roma are all interested in stealing the midfielder from Celtic. The Bhoys, unsurprisingly, do not want to lose Vata, but it’s claimed they face an uphill battle to keep him given the level of interest from around Europe.