Arsenal set sights on sealing Gabriel Paulista deal

Arsenal are expected to press ahead with their interest in Villarreal centre-back Gabriel Paulista following the completion of a deal for teenage midfielder Krystian Bielik from Legia Warsaw.

However, the Gunners are likely to have to overcome a work permit hearing before the uncapped Brazilian would be allowed to play in England.

Poland youth international Bielik, who can play in midfield or defence, is expected to work initially within the Gunners’ Under-21s side, with a view to a swift progression of the 17-year-old prospect through to the senior squad. Arsenal confirmed the transfer from Legia Warsaw for an undisclosed fee of Bielik, who also had talks with German club Hamburg and is understood to have cost around £2.5 million (€3.2m).