Fabrizio Romano drops update on Gabriel after Arsenal star 'meets with Saudi Pro League club' in London

Fabrizio Romano has dropped an update on the future of Arsenal star Gabriel Magalhaes amid transfer interest from the Saudi Pro League.

The Brazil defender was once again named on the bench for Monday's 1-0 win over Crystal Palace, the second consecutive game he has missed out on the starting XI.

He did make a second half substitute appearance, however, replacing Gabriel Martinelli after Takehiro Tomiyasu was sent off, and captained the side in the latter stages after Martin Odegaard's withdrawal.

But given he was an ever-present in the Premier League for Arsenal last season, his lack of recent game time has been a surprise.

Interest in the Brazilian has reportedly developed from Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad and Spanish giants Real Madrid, leading to speculation that the 25-year-old could leave Arsenal this summer.

Romano has now given an update on his future.

Fabrizio Romano gives transfer update on Arsenal star Gabriel

Taking to Twitter, Romano eased the fears of Arsenal fans by revealing that the club have no plans to sell Gabriel this summer - and have not even set an asking price for the Brazilian.

He wrote: "Understand Arsenal have no intention to sell Gabriel Magalhaes despite Al Ittihad interest.

"Arsenal not even intentioned to indicate a price tag for Brazilian centre-back at this stage. He's expected to stay."

Understand Arsenal have no intention to sell Gabriel Magalhães despite Al Ittihad interest 🔴⚪️⛔️ #AFC

Arsenal not even intentioned to indicate a price tag for Brazilian centre back at this stage. He’s expected to stay. pic.twitter.com/fNDP8WFGXv

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 21, 2023

However, according to Saudi Arabian journalist Ahmed Al-Ajlan, Al Ittihad's interest in the defender remains.

He claims that club representatives met with Gabriel in London to discuss a proposed transfer, although the extent or outcome of any talks is unclear.

Al Ittihad lead the Saudi Pro League table after two games played, having already made some substantial signings during the summer window.

The league's transfer window closes on September 7 - six days after Europe's - meaning European clubs cannot seek replacements if any players are sold after their own window closes on September 1.