Journalist Charles Watts has tipped the Gunners to complete the medical for what would be their first signing of the January transfer window this weekend.

Arsenal have clearly been weakened in the centre-back position after the injury to Calum Chambers which was followed by Mavropanos’ loan move to Germany.

As a result, Mikel Arteta has been linked with a move to sign Flamengo defender Pablo Mari and the deal appears to be very close to being completed.

The 26-year-old was spotted at Heathrow airport on Saturday by journalist Charles Watts, who asked him about the expected transfer to the Emirates stadium.

Maria’s response was a very promising one as he admitted that he is in on course for an Arsenal switch.

According to Watts, the Spanish defender is set to undergo a medical this weekend ahead of his transfer to the Gunners.

The defender’s arrival will make him the first player that new boss Mikel Arteta has signed since his appointment last month.

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