Arsenal sent message by loan exile as Barcelona eye Gabriel Magalhaes transfer

Arsenal are now fighting to get back into the top four having slipped off the pace for Champions League football.

The Gunners have suffered back-to-back defeats to Crystal Palace and Brighton respectively, and they are now three points behind Tottenham in fourth.

Crucially, they are also significantly behind on goal difference, putting them behind in the race to secure fourth spot.

But as Mikel Arteta’s men prepare to make things right Southampton this weekend, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news.

Gabriel interest

Barcelona are eyeing a move for Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes.

According to Sport, Xavi Hernandez and the Barca coaching staff have been impressed by the Brazilian and they are likely to be in need of a left-sided centre-back amid the expected exits of Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti.

Fortunately for Arsenal, Gabriel is tied down to a contract until 2025, so they are in a strong negotiating position.

Mari doesn’t want return

Pablo Mari is said to have informed Arteta that he does not want to return to the club this summer.

The Spaniard joined Udinese on loan in the January transfer window after struggling for regular football this season.

According to the Metro, Mari has now made it clear to Arsenal that he would prefer to remain with Udinese long term, reluctant to return to North London.

Morata links

Arsenal are still said to be interested in a move for Juventus and Atletico Madrid frontman Alvaro Morata.

The Gunners were linked with the Spaniard in January but did not pull off a deal.

Corriere dello Sport, via Sport Witness say Arsenal are hovering with an interest ahead of the summer, with Juventus unwilling to pay the €35million option to buy built into the striker’s loan deal.

They are said to be seeking a discount from Atletico Madrid, and that could give Arsenal an opportunity if they are willing to pay.