Arsenal

Everton should rival Valencia for Arsenal’s Gabriel

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OPINION

Everton need to add a central defender to their squad in the coming weeks and Ronald Koeman should look to rival Valencia for Arsenal stopper Gabriel Paulista.

The Sun claims the 26-year-old defender will be allowed to leave the north London giants this summer if a suitable offer comes in from interested parties, with La Liga outfit Valencia said to be keen.

The report claims the Brazilian defender is not in Arsene Wenger’s first-team plans, with Rob Holding likely to be preferred by the Gunners throughout the entire 2017-18 season.

It is said that the former Villarreal defender will cost £10million to lure him away from the Emirates Stadium, after the Gunners spent £11.3million on Gabriel back in 2015.

Everton are set to embark on a season that will see them ply their trade in four separate competitions, after qualifying for the Europa League play-off round that will see them face a two-legged tie against Hajduk Split.

However, with the loss of Ramiro Funes Mori to injury, after the Argentina international suffered a long-term knee problem while with his national side, Everton will be down to only three-centre backs for the next six to nine months.

It leaves just Michael Keane, Ashley Williams and Phil Jagielka, with the latter duo needing constant rest due to their ever-growing age in the world of football.

Bringing a fourth centre-back to Goodison Park that boasts experience in European football is key, and that man can be Gabriel for the knockdown price of £10million.

Gabriel has 14 career appearances in both the Europa League and Champions League and now reportedly surplus to requirements, he would be a top buy for the Toffees.

Playing him alongside either Jagielka or Williams would give Koeman a defender that cover the lack of pace shown by the Everton duo, with Gabriel known for his quick recovery speed.

Comfortable on the ball and strong in the air, the former Esporte Clube Vitória ace would be a top signing for the Toffees if they were to continue their summer recruitment with Arsenal’s number five.

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