Arsenal have signed Brazilian defender Gabriel Paulista from Villarreal, the Premier League club said yesterday. The 24-year-old has moved to London in a deal worth £11.3 million.

“It’s another dream in my career that has come true,” Gabriel said.

“I have only just arrived but I am already feeling really good here in London. I’m at a top club so that gives me more strength to be able to work and carry on, to be able to conquer much more in my career.”

Arsenal forward Joel Campbell joined Villarreal on loan for the rest of the season as part of the deal.

Gabriel will provide Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger with experienced back-up for first-choice central defenders Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker. He could make his debut in the home Premier League game against Aston Villa on Sunday.

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