"Arguably he’s Arsenal’s best defender" - Gabby Agbonlahor hails 'outstanding' Gunners star after showing in Spurs win

Gabby Agbonlahor has suggested he thinks Gabriel Magalhaes is better than William Saliba in a glowing assessment of the Arsenal defender. The former Aston Villa striker was left awestruck by the Brazilian in the Gunners' 1-0 away win against Tottenham Hotspur in the north London derby (September 15).

Gabriel netted the winner in the 64th minute, shrugging off Cristian Romero before heading home with aplomb. It was a vital goal for Mikel Arteta's side as they claimed all three points against their London rivals ahead of a trip to Manchester City (September 22).

Agbonlahor praised Gabriel's performance against Spurs and explained why he's the type of defender he wouldn't have wanted to play against. He told talkSPORT:

"Watching the game, he is one of the defenders I would have hated to play against. He’s aggressive, he’s strong, he’s quick, he’s good on the ball, and to get that goal, that goal was the only probably chance in the game that was really going to go in for either team."

Gabriel's performance was excellent for the visitors and was key for Arteta. He also made eight clearances, two tackles and blocked two shots in a faultless showing:

"I thought Gabriel was outstanding. He has picked up where he left last season and arguably he’s Arsenal’s best defender."

Gabriel has forged perhaps the best defensive partnership in the Premier League with Saliba. The French defender has similarly been a stalwart at the back for Arteta over the past two years.

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Arsenal reportedly open talks with Gabriel Magalhaes over a contract extension

Gabriel's impressive performances haven't gone unnoticed, and Arsenal are seemingly eager to discuss his long-term future. He's been at the Emirates since September 2020, when he joined from LOSC Lille for £27 million.

English journalist Charles Watts reports in his Daily Briefing that the Gunners are trying to extend Gabriel's contract. They have opened talks over a new deal with his current one expiring in 2027.

Discussions between the two parties are said to be at an early stage but have started. The north Londoners will be eager to ensure the Brazil international signs a new deal having been crucial for Arteta.

Gabriel has made 172 appearances for Arsenal and has been part of their side that has challenged for the title two years in a row. He's one of the first names on Arteta's teamsheet.