Ex-Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell believes the Gunners have got themselves a bargain in centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes.

The Brazilian has hit the ground running after joining from Lille in a £27m deal back in August and Campbell thinks the 22-year-old has everything to succeed at the Emirates Stadium:

“Finally Arsenal have got a centre-back who wants to defend, who likes to defend. You see Gabriel back there and he is making the players around him better. That is the sign of a top-class player. He is powerful, quick, strong, good on the ball and good in the air – Arsenal stole him for that price!”

Playing in the Premier League is usually a big step up, especially for most young defenders, but Gabriel has taken everything in his stride, and he has been a key reason why Arsenal have the best defence in the top flight so far this campaign.

Of course, it is probably wise not to get too far ahead of ourselves. Other centre-backs in the past have started promisingly before their form faded away but it does feel different this time with this player.

Gabriel is still young and willing to learn, and that will surely hold him in good stead as he looks to improve his game over the coming years.