Gabriel Paulista's move to Arsenal imminent, as team secure work permit

Arsenal have moved one step closer to finalising the deal for Gabriel Paulista, after reports suggest that the Home Office have granted the Brazilian defender a work permit to play in England.

According to the Guardian, the Villarreal defender, who is uncapped by his country, was not eligible for an automatic permit, but the Gunners have procured a permit under the Football Associations "exceptional talent" guidelines.

The Spanish club have already confirmed a deal in principle with the north London club over the transfer of the defender, with Arsenal's Costa Rican striker Joel Campbell going the other way on loan for the remainder of the season.

Arsene Wenger had revealed that Gabriel's transfer was close to being finalised following his team's 3-2 win over Brighton in the FA Cup. The report claims that the defender was undergoing his medical with the club on Monday and expects the transfer to be finalised in the next 24 hours.

The Frenchman believes that the defender, who is tall and pacy can adapt well to the English game. The 24-year-old will be used as backup for first choice pairing Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny.

"Paulista is a central defender but he can also play on the flanks. He is tall and pacy. He has a good chance to adapt to English football," Wenger said, as quoted by the BBC.

Meanwhile, Campbell, who is moving to the La Liga club on-loan for the rest of the season, has expressed his delight at being given the opportunity to go and play for the Spanish club. He is very excited and has vowed to give his best during his time with the Yellow Submarines.

"This means a lot to me, I am very excited with this new opportunity and I hope to sign the contract tomorrow [Sunday]," the Costa Rican striker said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.

"It is a great team and hope to take advantage of this opportunity and do my best. [It] is a huge step."

"The Spanish league is a top one and Villarreal have a great game style and I hope to have the opportunity to demonstrate what I know. [It] is a pleasure to play with them," Campbell added.