According to Spanish source Marca, it seems clear that the deal to bring Villarreal’s Gabriel Paulista to the Emirates, is practically done.

The Spanish source have released the figures for the deal, stating the fee to be in or around the €20million mark, higher than what Arsenal were originally willing to pay for the centre back. These payments are said to be spread over several years which meant the Gunners were not meeting the buyout clause of Paulista’s contract.

Villarreal have been trying hard to have Costa Rican striker Joel Campbell included in the deal in some part and Marca are led to believe that this deal is nearly sorted too. It is being reported that Campbell will leave for Villarreal on loan for the rest of the season. This loan deal is part of a make-shift for the Gunners not meeting the buyout clause. It is believed that there is no option to buy the young striker at the end of the season.

Reports are circulating that Arsenal playmaker, Santi Cazorla, urged Campbell to move to Villarreal over David Moyes’ Real Sociedad who were also interested in his services. Campbell has struggled for game time at Arsenal this year, making just 3 starts so perhaps a loan spell is what he needs.

Villarreal’s manager, Marcelino has also stated:

Everything indicates the negotiation is going one way... we'll have to bring in another (player) to fight in the league because it would be a necessity so we can compete in all the competitions we're in.",

Claiming Paulista is on his way to Arsenal. It is also rumoured that he believed that Paulista will only be a Villarreal player for a few hours more and have reportedly made a move for defender, Hernanes from Italian side Napoli.

It is also being rumoured that any agreement for the Brazilian will include a clause which cancels the deal, should the player fail to get a work permit as this still needs to be sorted as of yet.

Arsenal look to be on the verge of capturing a solid defensive unit this window, news many Arsenal fans will be delighted to hear, however yet another striker is on his way out of the club. With Welbeck still injured, the depth up front is depleting.