Arsenal leading the race for Brazilian defender

Arsenal are reportedly leading the race to sign Gabriel Magalhaes despite the late approach from Manchester United.

The Gunners have been fancied to sign the Lille centre-back in recent days, but Gianluca di Marzio claimed that the Red Devils could hijack the deal.

However, the same source has now revealed that the Gunners remain in the driving seat as they are willing to offer a better financial package to the player.

Gabriel is deemed to have already undergone a medical in France and the transfer could be officially confirmed by the Gunners in the near future.

The north London side are said to have requested the FA for Gabriel to be exempted from the 14-day quarantine such that he can start training.

Gabriel is set to become the club's second signing of the summer transfer window following the arrival of Willian on a Bosman earlier this month.

The club are eyeing at least two more signings. Thomas Partey and Houssem Aouar are among the high-profile names on their wishlist at the moment.