Arsenal announce signing of Fabio Vieira from Porto
Arsenal have officially announced the signing of Fabio Vieira from FC Porto on a long-term contract.
The youngster enjoyed a breakthrough 2021/22 campaign, where he bagged six goals and 14 assists in only 15 starts, making him one of the most highly-rated youngsters in Portugal.
Arsenal did not have a free run at Vieira, with the Gunners having to ward off competition from the likes of Liverpool and Tottenham to land the midfielder.
Still only 22, many believe Arsenal have a gem on their hands and he could end up being a bargain signing.
What has been said
Like Arsenal fans, there was much positivity among the club’s hierarchy after their first big signing of the summer.
Arsenal technical director Edu said: “We’re so pleased to have completed the signing of Fabio from FC Porto. Fabio is a player with special qualities who is comfortable with the ball in the final third of the pitch.
"We are all looking forward to working with him and enjoying his future contribution to Arsenal. We will now continue to work hard and are looking forward to finishing this transfer window as strongly as possible.”
Head coach Mikel Arteta added: ”I am very excited that we have identified and signed such a special talent. Fabio is a very creative player that will bring high quality and versatility to our attacking play. We welcome Fabio and his family to our club and are looking forward to starting work with him ahead of the new season.”
Speaking on joining Arsenal, Vieira himself said: “I’m thrilled, of course. This is an important step forward in my career. Arsenal is a huge and historic club, so I’m delighted to be here at my new home.”
“As I said, Arsenal is a historic English club. It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world. Everyone knows that Arsenal are a fantastic team. That was one of the main factors behind me choosing Arsenal. I really like the way the team plays and I can’t wait to get started.”
Numbers behind the move
Arsenal paid an initial €35m to Porto, and that fee is expected to rise to €40m with add-ons. The Gunners did not officially disclose the length of the contract but reports claim it is a five-year deal.
Vieira predominantly plays as an attacking midfielder, but can also feature on the flanks as well. Arsenal are working hard to make even more signings this summer, with Gabriel Jesus and Youri Tielemans among their top targets.
On the same day, the Gunners also submitted an official offer to Leeds over the signing of Raphinha. However, the bid fell short of Leeds’ valuation and is expectedly to be rejected swiftly by the Whites.
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