Mikel Arteta has issued a blunt response to speculation is being lined up as a transfer target for several Saudi Arabia Pro League clubs.
The Brazil international has been a mainstay of the Gunners’ defence since his move from Lille three years ago and last season formed a highly effective partnership alongside William Saliba.
Gabriel was, however, a surprising omission from the starting line-up last weekend as Arsenal began their domestic campaign with a nervy 2-1 home win over .
but Arteta insists he has no plans to listen to offers for Gabriel or any other defenders, especially in light of the long-term injury sustained by on his debut.
Asked if Gabriel could be allowed to leave if a suitable offer came in, Arteta, speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Monday’s game at Crystal Palace, said: ‘There are not any plans on anything like that.’
on an ACL inury.
‘After just joining to have this injury is a big blow for him,’ said Arteta.
‘We recruited him intentionally to add to the team and now we have to adapt and move on.
‘He has been very good to be honest. He’s a special character. He’s in a good place so we are all willing to help him but it’s going to be a long journey.
‘I’m thinking about the resources we have in the team but he would have given us different things on both sides of defence.
‘It’s an opportunity for everybody. We need everybody.’
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