Arsenal transfer news and rumours: Gunners announce signing of Bielik; Paulista could move admits Villareal coach; Winston Reid denial
The latest talk surrounding the Emirates
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Winston Reid, understood to be a target for Arsenal, has said on Twitter that he is not angling for a move from West Ham this month. The defender is out of contract in the summer and reports yesterday suggested he wanted to depart Upton Park but the centre-back has said it's "not true". The Hammers remain hopeful they can convince him to sign a new contract.
POSSIBLE ARRIVALS...
Perhaps a likelier arrival this month is Gabriel Paulista. The Gunners are reportedly in talks to sign the Villarreal centre-back. The 24-year-old has been a part of the tight defence that has seen the Spanish side go unbeaten since the start of November and Arsene Wenger sees the Brazilian as the short and long-term answer to Arsenal's defensive issues. The Gunners are proposing an initial £6m fee, potentially rising beyond £10m. Villarreal will hold out for his release clause of £15.25m. As well as the fee, there could also be work permit issues. But Villarreal coach Marcelino admits the defender could go.
"I hadn't considered selling Gabriel, it's bad news from a sporting point of view," he said. "If both Gabriel and the club believe that his sale to Arsenal is the best for all parties, we will accept."
Arsenal are weighing up a bid of £9m for Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tiote. According to the Daily Star talks have already been held with the Ivorian's representatives, who have told the Gunners that the 28-year-old wants £80,000-a-week and a three-year deal.
WANTED...
Santi Cazorla has been exceptional in recent weeks, but as well as helping Arsenal pick up points at places like Manchester City, it's also seeing him garner interest from abroad. Among those on the continent paying attention to the midfielder is Barcelona midfielder Xavi, who has said he would like to see Cazorla at the Nou Camp. "There is some great Spanish football talent around. Who would I sign for Barcelona? [David] Silva and Cazorla," he said.
DONE DEAL...
The Gunners have officially announced the arrival of Krystian Bielik, 17, from Legia Warsaw.
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