Lecce Reward Tiago Gabriel's Loyalty With New Long-Term Contract

Lecce have handed centre-back Tiago Gabriel a new contract with a pay rise, rewarding the Portuguese defender's decision to stay at the club despite plenty of interest from elsewhere over the summer.

The 2004 born defender had attracted attention from several clubs, including some big names, but ultimately chose to remain with the Salento side. President Sticchi Damiani has now stepped in to reward that loyalty by offering him improved terms and a longer deal, recognizing the progress he's made at the club.

Throughout the summer, agent Jorge Mendes explored a possible move away for his client, with AC Milan reportedly the closest to landing him. Gabriel, who came through Sporting Lisbon's youth academy before joining Lecce from Estrela Amadora, also drew interest from clubs in the Premier League, but Lecce managed to hold firm and keep hold of him.

His previous contract had been due to run until June 30, 2027, at the end of this season, with a clause allowing Lecce to automatically trigger a two-year extension through to 2029. According to Fabrizio Romano, though, the club has now agreed fresh terms with Gabriel and Mendes, including a pay rise, with his new deal set to run until June 30, 2030.