'Here we go' - Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal transfer

Tom Weber

Updated: 24 Aug 2024 16:35 BST
3 min read

Fabio Vieira rejoining Porto on loan is 'here we go' done, according to Fabrizio Romano.

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The Portuguese midfielder has struggled to win himself a regular place in the Arsenal team since joining the Gunners from Porto in 2022. Vieira has to date only made 49 appearances for Arsenal, netting three times and assisting nine.

Last season, Vieira found himself sidelined for some time after undergoing groin surgery and it essentially ended his campaign, with the player barely featuring. The 24-year-old took the field just 17 times last term.

Ahead of the current campaign, it was clear that the Portuguese would once again struggle for minutes, especially in light of Mikel Merino's impending arrival at the Emirates.

Nevertheless, FootballTransfers revealed in July that Mikel Arteta was not willing to sell Vieira just yet. Now, the player has sealed a move away - but only temporarily.

Vieira to join Porto

On Friday evening, news broke that Arsenal were in talks with Porto over a loan deal for the 24-year-old. This transfer is now done, according to Fabrizio Romano, with Porto giving the final green light after loaning Francisco Conceicao to Juventus.

The loan for Vieira will not include an option or obligation to buy, confirming our reporting that Arsenal are not ready to sell the midfielder. Porto will cover the player's salary for the duration of his season-long stay at his old stomping ground.

Vieira has not been included in Arsenal's squad to face Aston Villa. The player also played no part in the Gunners opening Premier League game against Wolves.

The aforementioned Merino is expected to be a like-for-like replacement for Vieira, with FootballTransfers understanding that the Spaniard has completed his medical. We hear that the deal is expected to be officially announced on Monday.