Arsenal have offered around £5million to Villareal for centre-back Gabriel Paulista, according to a report in The Mirror.
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The report suggests the biggest obstacle in the deal is a work permit and Wenger does have other options in terms of defensive recruits. However the player seems keen on a move to The Emirates and has hinted that talks are underway.
Paulista told press: “Whether I go to Arsenal or stay at Villarreal, I won’t lose my head,” Gabriel said. “I’m very calm. My head is at Villarreal and I’m very focused. My agent is working on making sure I continue being calm.”
Paulista is a Brazilian defender and stands at 6ft 1 and a half. He has impressed at the heart of the defence for Villareal this season and is a regular for the La Liga side. Arsenal could offer Joel Campbell on loan in order to help negotiations run smoothly.
Wenger is also keeping tabs on Valencia’s Argentinia defender Nicolas Otamendi according to The Mirror. The Gunners have reportedly scouted the versatile defender, who can play at right or centre back.