Arsenal could have to make some sacrifices this summer in order to rake in the cash they need to buy a new striker after falling 15 points behind Liverpool in the title race this sesason
Comments
Sport
Gabriel Magalhaes
Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has interest from Cristiano Ronaldo's Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr
(Image: Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
Arsenal are facing a huge transfer window this summer after news that Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr are preparing a bid for centre-back Gabriel. The Gunners are being tipped for a big window at the end of the season to address a number of areas that need strengthening.
That includes a new attacker after the team were left without a recognised striker following an injury crisis. Newcastle's Alexander Isak is seen as Mikel Arteta's top choice for a new striker, while Arsenal also made a late move for Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins and he will be a target on their shortlist too.
Article continues below
But the club are also facing a difficult situation within their squad and the futures of key players amid interest in Gabriel from the Middle East. According to talkSport, Ronaldo's side are pushing to land the Brazilian and are prepared to pay him up to £16million a year.
READ MORE: Thomas Tuchel told to BAN star from playing for England again - 'You don't say no'READ MORE: Arsenal star reveals Mikel Arteta's unusual motivation methods and eyes new position
It's claimed that representatives of Al-Nassr have already reached out to Gabriel's team, which would give Arsenal a serious dilemma - given that the player will only have two years to run on his contract this summer.
Arsenal know they won't be able to match anywhere near the £16m a year that Saudi chiefs can offer. He is currently earning around £100,000-a-week at the Emirates and there is a chance the 27-year-old will want to prolong his stay to ensure he continues to play at the top level.
But the Gunners might also be aware that they have looming contract decisions regarding Bukayo Saka and William Saliba. Both players are in the same boat as Gabriel and see their contracts expire in 2027.
William Saliba, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel
The Gunners are facing a dilemma with William Saliba, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel all approaching the last two years of their contracts
Arsenal won't want to risk getting into a similar situation to Liverpool with Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk and possibly lose the trio for nothing. Of course, Arsenal, led by incoming sporting director Andrea Berta, could try to hand new deals to all three players to eliminate the problem before it arises.
But committing new contracts, all of which likely featuring pay rises, could scupper their ability to spend big money on the new forward they so desperately need. PSR regulations are hampering all Premier League clubs and Arsenal are no different.
The report concerning Gabriel claims Arsenal will hold out for around £100million. Saudi clubs are hardly short on cash and that's unlikely to be a stumbling block for them.
Mikel Arteta ahead of Arsenal vs Chelsea
Mikel Arteta could have to make some difficult decisions in his bid to sign a new striker
You would therefore imagine the prospect of collecting £100m for a defender who could soon be out of contract would be tempting if it allows Arsenal to splash the cash on some much-needed firepower.
Arsenal have been in the title race for the last three seasons but have been overpowered by Manchester City and Liverpool on each occasion. With both sides expected to strengthen next season, Arteta will recognise that his side are running out of chances to catch them.
With Isak's reported price tag skyrocketing to £150m and fellow target Benjamin Sesko said to have a £67m release clause, the club could be forced to make some sacrifices to increase their chances of becoming champions.
Join our new WhatsApp communityand receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.