Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Flamengo defender Pablo Mari.
The Spaniard arrived in London on Saturday lunchtime ahead of a move to Emirates Stadium, which would initially be on loan with a view to making it permanent.
The Gunners have been in the market for a new centre-back this month after Calum Chambers was ruled out for the rest of the season with a serious knee injury.
Arsenal have looked at a number of targets, but have now swooped for Mari as the transfer window entered its final week.
The 26-year-old is in England to undergo a medical before confirming personal terms with the Gunners.
When asked at Heathrow Airport whether he was excited to join Arsenal, Mari told Goal: "Yeah, of course."
Mari will be head coach Mikel Arteta’s first signing since he was appointed in December.
The defender was signed by Manchester City in 2016, but spent three years out on loan before joining Flamengo last year.
He shone in BrazIl and is now ready to return to Europe by joining Arsenal.
