LA Galaxy’s breakout star sparks transfer battle between Arsenal and Liverpool | OneFootball

When Gabriel Pec left Vasco da Gama for LA Galaxy, not very many people would have guessed his adaptation to Major League Soccer would be so explosive. It was a season where the Brazilian winger with 20 goals and 18 assists in 40 games helped Galaxy reach the MLS Cup final and attracted the attention of some big European guns like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Atlético de Madrid. This Saturday (7), Pec will have the chance to crown his debut season with the MLS Cup title, being the great hope for a Galaxy team that lost Riqui Puig to injury.

Pec arrived at LA Galaxy as a gamble but quickly became the driving force of the team's attack. His offensive contributions not only earned him the Rookie of the Year award but also established him as the main piece for coach Greg Vanney in a historic season for the club.

Pec is that sort of player who can unsettle defenses and change the game around. He doesn't just score goals; he also opens up opportunities for his teammates, as evidenced by his 18 assists this season. That combination has put big European teams on notice.

The moment of glory is near

This Saturday, Gabriel Pec has another chance to prove why he's considered one of the MLS's rising stars. With Riqui Puig out due to injury, the attacking responsibility for Galaxy will fall on the Brazilian. It's a golden opportunity for Pec to show whether or not he can lead a team on the league's biggest stage.

The final opponent will not be an easy one; Galaxy has an ace up the sleeve: the confidence in the possibility of Pec deciding games. Whether cutting from the wings, shooting off his feet from outside the box, or delivering precise passes, the Brazilian will be the center in the attack.

European interest

The performances of Pec didn't go unnoticed. Arsenal, and Liverpool lead the longlist of clubs interested in the 23-year-old winger. The Gunners view Pec as a creative option to ease the burden on Bukayo Saka, while Liverpool sees him as a possible long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah, who is in the final stages of his contract. Also, clubs such as Newcastle, Inter Milan, and Atlético de Madrid are keeping an eye on the player's progress in MLS, according to CaughtOffside.

This attention is no surprise. Pec combines the qualities top clubs seek in young talents. He also brought a new offensive identity to LA Galaxy. In a team that had been struggling to return to the MLS elite, the Brazilian brought dynamism and unpredictability. With him on the field, Galaxy became a team capable of competing against any opponent in the league.

Redefining MLS investments

Besides, Pec is a statement of intent regarding the new way MLS clubs are investing in South American talents. His transfer, worth up to $11.5 million, is already paying dividends not only on the pitch but also off it, with the player now valued at €8 million according to Transfermarkt.

Regardless of the outcome of the MLS Cup final, it's hard to imagine Pec staying at LA Galaxy for much longer. The European interest is only expected to grow, especially if he continues to impress with such decisive performances.

Pec is the type of player who can be developed into a key figure for both Liverpool and Arsenal. His contract with Galaxy runs until 2028, but with the eyes of European giants on him, a transfer might just be a matter of time.