Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed the reasons behind the club’s imminent completion of the signing of Gabriel Paulista for £15m.
The Gunners were expecting to announce the signing of the Brazillian today, with only work permit issues to sort out.
Manchester United were also keen on the centre-back, but it appears he is almost certainly on his way to the Emirates Stadium instead.
Wenger, talking about the deal, said: : “He is tall and pacy. He has a good chance to adapt to English football.
“I see good potential in him.
“The deal could be done before the FA Cup draw [this evening].
“It’s on the line and nearly [done].”
Villarreal, in a club statement said: “Villarreal CF and Arsenal FC have come to a preliminary agreement, that will be completed on Monday, for the transfer of Brazilian defender Gabriel Armando de Abreu.
“Once Gabriel passes the physical examination, he will join the Gunners in the Premier League.”
Paulista is set to provide cover and competition in the Gunners defence, with only two recognised centre-backs in Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny.
He has made 37 league appearances for the Spanish La Liga side since joining in 2013 from Vitoria of Brazil.
As part of the deal, forward Joel Campbell is heading to the Mestalla on loan for the rest of the season.
Steve Osborne @Pack3rNa7ion
