Published: 29 January, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger has been singing the praises of the club’s newest signing, Gabriel Paulista. 

The Gunners reportedly agreed a deal in the region of £15million with La Liga outfit Villarreal for the 24-year-old defender, with striker Joel Campbell, 22, moving the opposite way on loan. 

Having now been granted a work permit for the uncapped Brazilian, Wenger is adamant that Paulista will adapt quickly.

“Paulista has good potential,” said Wenger. “He is a central defender but he can also play on the flanks. He is tall and pacy, and has a good chance to adapt to English football.” Paulista is Arsenal’s second signing of the January transfer window, after teenage midfielder Krystian Bielik joined the club last week. 

Meanwhile, the FA Cup holders have been made favourites to retain the prestigious trophy following a weekend of shock fourth-round results, which saw Chelsea, Man City and Tottenham all exiting the competition. The Gunners were drawn at home against Championship side Middlesbrough in the fifth round. Fans unable to get tickets can still watch the action unfold live as it’s being screened on BT Sport on Sunday, February 15.