On the latest episode of The Transfer Window Podcast, Duncan Castles and Ian McGarry have been discussing some of the biggest deals that could happen in the summer transfer window.
One topic of conversation on the recent episode was Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes. The Brazilian has been regularly linked with a move to Everton in recent months, but Castles has suggested that Manchester United are also interested in signing the 22-year-old this summer.
Here’s what the journalist had to say about the young centre-back on the podcast:
“Gabriel, their young 22-year-old Brazilian centre-back, who’s very good at bringing the ball out of defence as well as having strong physical characteristics. He is wanted by Everton, has been for some time. Everton, I’m told, remain interested. There’s also interest from Internazionale in Gabriel, but the best offer on the table to date, I’m told from the Lille end, is Napoli’s, although they have not agreed that fee.
“[An] interesting additional bit of information on this is that Manchester United have asked to be kept informed of discussions over Gabriel. They haven’t made an offer. They have not stated an intention that they want to buy the player, but they have expressed their interest in Gabriel, and this is very much a way Manchester United have operated in the transfer market in recent years; they like to have multiple targets.”
Castles later adds his thoughts on how he thinks the young defender would fit into United’s style of play, saying:
“We now see Ole Gunnar Solskjaer thinking about improving his defence and looking for a left-sided centre-back – and Gabriel very much fits that; he’s left-footed, obviously can play on the left side of defence, and one of the things I’m told Manchester United are looking to improve if they do buy a new centre-back is the distribution of the ball from defensive areas. Gabriel is someone who is very good in that sense, good in building the play and bringing the ball forward.”
TIF Thoughts…
It certainly sounds as if there is plenty of interest in the Brazilian at this moment, and if United are truly considering a move for the 22-year-old, then they will perhaps have to act fast if they don’t want to see him join Napoli, Everton or Inter. Whilst Harry Maguire has impressed in his first season with the club, averaging a 7.12/10 rating for his performances in the Premier League, his defensive partner Victor Lindelof has been less impressive, averaging a disappointing 6.71 rating.
Would you like to see United sign Gabriel this summer?
Yes
No
Therefore, you could argue that Solskjaer is in need of another defender in the summer window, and perhaps we will see the Red Devils make an offer for the £15.75 million-rated Lille man.