The player has spoken of a move to the Emirates…
Manchester United have apparently joined Arsenal in the race to sign Villarreal defender Gabriel Paulista, according to respected Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague.
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The Brazilian has already revealed that his agent is in talks with the Gunners over a transfer, but they would seem to not be the only club who are after the player. The Red Devils have had their defence criticised this season, and may be looking to improve it by bringing in the highly sought after centre-back.
He said of the North London club’s interest, “Whether I go to Arsenal or stay at Villarreal, I won’t lose my head. I’m very calm. My head is at Villarreal and I’m very focused. My agent is working on making sure I continue being calm.”
However, both clubs will supposedly have to pay the 24-year-old’s €20 million release clause if they want to sign him. It is unknown if this will be a stumbling block in either team making a move for the player, reports ESPN.
Paulista has been a regular in the Villarreal team this season, helping them to sixth in La Liga. They are also unbeaten since early November in the division. The tweet from Balague is below…
Also, both United and Arsenal asked for Gabriel (Villarreal). They can only get him paying his €20m buyout clause. More on @revistadelaliga
— Guillem Balague (@GuillemBalague) January 19, 2015