Gabriel Paulista receives work permit ahead of transfer to Arsenal from Villareal

Gabriel Paulista’s transfer to Arsenal looks all but complete as the defender is granted Work Permit ahead of the move.

Gabriel Paulista’s Arsenal transfer is nearing completion after the defender was granted a work permit which was the only barrier in the deal. Paulista bid farewell to Villareal during their victory over Levante at El Madrigal on Saturday. The brazilian was on tears as the fans applauded the defender for his services. He was presented with a yellow submarine which represents symbol of the club.

The 24 year old defender will join Arsenal as the clubs agreed a £13.5million amid the fears that Brazilian might be late to recieve a work permit. Wenger was confident that the defender will complete his move a day later yesterday. Wenger said that he is optimistic about the move going through in few days after the 3-2 win against Brighton and Hove Albion in The FA Cup.

The move will see Joel Campbell of Arsenal joining Villareal for the rest of the season. Marcelinho, head coach of Villareal said that Gabriel’s deaprture will be hard to take but he is looking forward to the arrival of Joel Campbell. He also said that the deal was good for all the parties involved and there was no second thoughts that move will halt. The manager wasalso looking forward to working with Joel Campbell as he offer versatality in the squad.

Paulista will be second signing in January for Arsenal as they have already confirmed signing of Polish youngster Bielik. Manchester United also said to be interested in the defender but they never made an official bid and now they will be looking at Nicolas Otamendi of Valencia but the club backed off after Valencia put a high valuation for the player. Mats Hummels’ decision to stay at Dortmund also ruined the plans of Wenger to make a move for the German International.