Villarreal announce sale of Gabriel Paulista to Arsenal

Following intense speculation that the 24-year-old defender would leave the La Liga club for Arsenal in recent weeks, Villarreal have confirmed his departure.

The Spanish outfit announced the news on Twitter, saying: "Principal transfer agreement with Arsenal for Gabriel, who will say goodbye before today’s game. Good Luck!”

Villarreal also announced that Arsenal striker Joel Campbell would head the other way on a six-month loan after reportedly signing a contract extension with the Gunners.

“Welcome Joel Campbell! We’ve reached a loan agreement with Arsenal for the rest of the season. Endavant!” the club tweeted.

Gabriel signed for Villarreal at the beginning of last season from Brazilian club Esporte Clube Vitoria for a figure of around three million euros and although he struggled during his first year in La Liga, he has matured into a cultured centre half.

Campbell, 22, impressed on loan at Olympiacos in Greece last term and at the World Cup with Costa Rica but has barely got a look in at Arsenal.

Jorge Ordas, Eurosport Spain: Gabriel Paulista was not an important player during his first season in Villarreal. During this one, he has benefited from some other defenders' injuries. This season he has played more than any other player and he’s one of the more usual players for the coach Marcelino. He’s a leader on the pitch, he’s fast and he has a very interesting tactical position. He could be a very interesting player for Arsenal.