Arsenal have confirmed the capture of Portuguese midfield sensation Fabio Vieira, who joins from FC Porto on a long-term contract.
As confirmed by the club’s official website, Arsenal have completed the signing of Fabio Vieira from Portuguese giants FC Porto. The 22-year-old midfielder has penned a long-term contract with the Premier League heavyweights.
Vieira came through the youth ranks at FC Porto and made his first-team breakthrough for the club in the 2020/21 season. He gradually grew into a regular for the senior side and played a pivotal part as the Dragoes won the Portuguese league title in 2021/22.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder ended the last season with impressive numbers of seven goals and 16 assists from 39 matches in all competitions. His potential and promise had alerted a host of clubs across Europe, with Tottenham and Manchester United credited with an interest, while Liverpool had also been keeping an eye on the Portuguese Under-21 international.
However, in a swift move, Arsenal pulled in front of the rest of the suitors and quickly reached an agreement with Porto over the signing of the 22-year-old Vieira. The Portuguese outfit had confirmed the agreement over the weekend and Arsenal have now made the transfer official, confirming that the youngster has signed a long-term contract.
Bem-vindo, Fabio ❤️
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 21, 2022
Speaking about the signing, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said: “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.”
Sporting director Edu, who acted swiftly to close the deal, added: “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.”
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal will be paying a transfer fee of €35 million, plus €5 million in add-ons, for Vieira. The 22-year-old will be wearing the No. 21 jersey at Arsenal and will soon join up with the rest of the team for the pre-season.
