Arsene Wenger confident of Gabriel Paulista deal despite work permit issue

Thegoalmac can reveal that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed "talks are progressing well" as he looks to sign Villarreal's Gabriel Paulista, although there is uncertainty over whether the defender will be granted a work permit to play in England.

The Gunners have been linked with a move for Gabriel, 24, with Villarreal coach Marcelino accepting that the transfer will likely go through if the player's buyout clause is met.


And Wenger, speaking at a news conference on Thursday, revealed that the transfer fee being discussed between the two clubs is 20 million euros.

"Talks are progressing quite well," he said. "Can we find an agreement? I don't know. We are slowly progressing and there is a chance.

"It is 20 million euros, which is 15 million pounds. We are ready to pay the price we think is right for a good player. If we think it is the right price, we will pay."