Arsenal are trying to finalise a £10million deal for Villareal defender Gabriel Paulista according to The Telegraph.
Paulista is a 24-year-old centre back who has impressed in La Liga this season. His style of play has seen him draw comparisons to Arsenal’s Laurent Koscielny.
The report suggests that Arsene Wenger has been hugely impressed with Paulista’s form over the last few months, and the Frenchman is ready to make a serious move for him. Only Barcelona and Real Madrid have conceded fewer goals than Villarreal this season, and Paulista has been central to that achievement. He stands at 6ft 1 and his strengths are listed as being good at interceptions and blocks according to WhoScored.
Villareal are holding out for their valuation of £15.25million (his release clause) to be met. The Telegraph suggest Arsenal have already made a bid of £6million, that could rise to £10million with bonuses. Manchester United are also thought to be interested in the Brazilian defender, but The Gunners appear to be the favourites. Joel Campbell could be offered on loan in a bid to sweeten any deal between the two clubs.
Paulista has already confirmed Arsenal’s interest in him. He told press last week: “Whether I go to Arsenal or stay at Villarreal, I won’t lose my head. 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.” Gabriel said.
“If I go to Arsenal it will be excellent. But if it’s not finalised then I am relaxed. I am focused on my work here.”
So it seems the player is keen on a move, but what could stop any deal is work permit issues. Paulista is yet to play for his country, and the rules state that players without an EU passport must be an international from a country ranked within FIFA’s top 70 and have played 75 per cent of their international matches in the last two years. Obviously Paulista doesn’t meet this criteria, but the rules are known to be relaxed in some situations.
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