Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a deal for Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes. The Red Devils are said to have met with the entourage of the Brazilian center-back and are exploring the possibility of securing a move for the player this summer.
After securing Champions League football for next season, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer side are eyeing more recruitments ahead of next season. Reports emerging from England suggest that the Old Trafford outfit is close to securing the service of Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho, while a couple of signings are believed to be in the pipeline. One of such is the potential acquisition of Gabriel Magalhaes.
Last week, Lille president Gerard Lopez confirmed that the defender is on his way out of the club and should choose his preferred destination in the coming days. In effect, the Ligue 1 outfit have swiftly moved to complete the 8 million-euro signing of Ajax's Sven Botman as his replacement.
Gabriel Magalhaes for Lille this season:
— Ùnited Galàctico (@galactico_mufc) July 25, 2020
41 Tackles won
78.2% Tackle success rate
22 Interceptions
40 Blocks
78 Clearances
129 long balls
72.3% Long pass accuracy
74 Aeriel duels won
He's value at just €25m. Left-footed
Your thoughts ? pic.twitter.com/DID9Rt0U29
The idea of a having left-footed center back is one that is apparently appealing to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and latest reports have indicated that the Norweigian manager could strengthen his backline with the recruitment of Gabriel. According to RMC Sport's Mohamed Bouhafsi, United have held talks with the player's delegation but are yet to table an official bid as they are weighing up other options as well.
Agents of #Gabriel have met the leaders of Manchester United in England. For the moment no concrete offer in Lille but discussions. Everton and especially Naples are there too. A 4th club has entered the file. The player / agents reflect.
— Mohamed Bouhafsi (@mohamedbouhafsi) August 2, 2020
Gabriel, who was instrumental in Lille finishing fourth in Ligue 1 last season, is reportedly valued in the region of 29 million euros. Everton and Napoli are also said to be in for the defender while another unnamed club has also joined the battle.