Official: Gabriel joins Arsenal

Arsenal have completed the signing of Gabriel Paulista from Villarreal for a reported €15.2m.

Although contractual details remain unknown, the uncapped Brazilian defender is believed to have signed a long-term deal with the Gunners after eventually securing a work permit to ply his trade in England.

"I came from a club that is not that big in Brazilian football. I went to Spanish football and that was another dream come true, to play in Europe," he told Arsenal's official website.

"A while ago I had a really huge desire to play in the Premier League, so since that point I put it in my head that I really wanted to do it.

"I had a talk with my family and I told them that it was my dream to play in the Premier League. Getting here to such a big club is so gratifying.

"I am arriving at a big club and the fans can expect to find a Gabriel with a great will to help everyone. Not just thinking of me as an individual, because to me that is not important.

"I care more about helping the team and my team-mates. I want to help everyone, so the fans can expect a Gabriel that on the field has a lot of will to be able to help the team win important things."

The Premier League side have yet to announce Gabriel's squad number.

Tags Arsenal England Gabriel Paulista Premier League Transfers
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