Gabriel Magalhaes's first words on new Arsenal contract as Andrea Berta secures first of eight renewals

Arsenal have confirmed that Gabriel Magalhaes has signed a new long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium, one that is expected to keep him at the club until the summer of 2029.

The Brazil international has blossomed into one of the world's leading centre-backs since joining from Lille in the summer of 2020, recently forming a steadfast partnership with William Saliba.

Gabriel was on top form throughout the 2024-25 season before a devastating hamstring injury, coming up with five goals and three assists in 42 games and consistently providing a threat from set-pieces.

The Brazilian's contract was not due to run out for another two seasons, but sporting director Andrea Berta made it a priority to extend players' deals whom the Gunners deem indispensable.

Gabriel unsurprisingly fell into that category, and the 27-year-old has now put pen to paper on a two-year extension, one that will almost certainly come with a hefty pay rise.

Gabriel expresses delight at new Arsenal contract

Speaking to the official Arsenal website after putting pen to paper, Gabriel outlined his ambitions to now deliver major trophies to the Gunners, having only won the Community Shield since joining.

"I arrived here as a young player and after almost five years I'm so happy and I've learned a lot," the South American said in his first interview since his renewal was confirmed.

"I'm so proud of myself, it's an amazing journey, and I'm so happy to continue it. I hope I win some trophies with this club, because I love this club and my family loves the club, too.

"Arsenal is an amazing club and I'm so proud to sign a new contract. I love this club, I love the supporters, my teammates, I love this stadium. I'm so proud and thank you for all the support. We continue together for the future."

Gabriel has amassed a total of 20 goals and five assists in 210 matches for the Gunners in all tournaments, and he was recently named Arsenal's Player of the Season for 2024-25 by an expert.

Gabriel signs new Arsenal deal: Who next for Andrea Berta?

Gabriel's new deal is not just a win for him, Arteta and Gooners, but also new sporting director Andrea Berta, who started from scratch when he arrived a few months ago.

While his predecessor Edu forged strong relationships with all players' camps, Berta had to build those bonds from the ground up and has evidently proven his ability in that regard by getting Gabriel tied down.

However, the centre-back is just one of several contract priorities for the Italian to attend to, as talks are also ongoing with the representatives of Thomas Partey, whose terms run out in just a few weeks' time.

Academy duo Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri should then be the next on the list, as both men are out of contract in 2026 - as is Leandro Trossard - and the former two will not be short of suitors whatsoever.

Meanwhile, Saliba, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli's terms run out in 2027 too, so while Gabriel's renewal is an early success story, it is just one box ticked on a huge list for Berta.

Written by
Ben Knapton