Young defender Thiago Gabriel has grabbed the spotlight in the Italian league, becoming a target for several major clubs, led by Barcelona and Bayern Munich, alongside the entry of a Saudi club into the competition.

Gabriel is considered a key player in Lecce's lineup under coach Eugenio Di Francesco, consistently delivering solid performances despite the team's struggles, as they currently sit sixteenth in the standings.

The Lecce defender is distinguished by remarkable physical strength and aerial toughness, benefiting from his height of 1.96 meters, in addition to his tactical maturity, which quickly earned him a key position.

Reports from the website "Foto Mercato" indicate that the Saudi club Neom is closely monitoring the player, competing with Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the race to sign the defensive talent.

Despite growing interest, Lecce shows no intention of letting Gabriel go during the current winter transfer window, firmly committed to keeping him as a key part of their defense.

The Italian club links approval of any potential transfer to receiving a substantial financial offer, considering that the player's departure before the end of the season would affect the team's stability.

The 21-year-old center-back has participated in 18 matches across various competitions this season, including 17 as a starter, and managed to score a goal against Cagliari.