Agent dismissive as he explains Newcastle, Arsenal transfer rumours for 28-goal striker
The agent of Brazilian star Gabriel Barbosa has flatly denied reports that the striker is targeting a move to the Premier League.
The forward better known as Gabigol was said to be keen on continuing his career in the Premier League. 90min has claimed there is “significant interest” from England. Everton, West Ham, Arsenal, Aston Villa and Newcastle United were all named as potential suitors.
But the interest has been shot down almost as quickly as it arrived.
“Intermediaries” were said to be “looking at his options” and line up a deal for the 25-year-old Flamengo forward.
However, journalist Jorge Nicola has shot down the talk after speaking to Gabigol’s representative Junior Pedroso.
The player’s official representative says that the transfer talk came from a Portuguese official who has no official links with the player.
“Only us from 4ComM and Gabriel’s father can speak on behalf of the athlete. And there is absolutely nothing with Premier League or any other league at the moment,” said Junior Pedroso.
“He is focused solely on playing for Flamengo, because he is very happy at the club.”
Newcastle with their new-found wealth had been expected to lead the charge for Barbosa.
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Barbosa rejuvenated in Brazil
The initial report claimed any suitor would need to come up with £30m to sign Barbosa. He has 28 goals in all competitions this season and was a permanent signing for the Brazilians from Inter Milan in January 2020.
Gabigol went for an undisclosed fee, believed to be around €16m on a deal until 2024.
The striker made just 10 appearances for the Nerazzurri and contributed a solitary goal. He also struggled on loan at Benfica before kcikstarting his career in Brazil.
He got back on track on loan with Santos before joining Flamengo. His goalscoring record for the Rio de Janeiro-based club has been superb with 83 goals from 121 games.
He is also an international team-mate of Liverpool star Alisson, who rates him highly.
Alisson told Fox Sports last year: “I believe that if Gabigol continues with this goalscoring mentality, every striker has to have it, score goals every game, make a difference in his team, if he does the same thing he is doing here at Flamengo, he will become a great player.”
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