Barcelona have completed the signing of Brazilian midfielder, Arthur Melo from Gremio.
The Spanish club and the 21-year-old agreed on a €31 million transfer fee, with €9m more in bonuses in the six-year contract, according to a statement on their official website. This is one of the moves Barcelona have taken to complete a formidable midfield, following Andres Iniesta departure at the end of last season and Paulinho record move to China.
“Barcelona have asked to bring my arrival forward to this summer,” Arthur explained in a news conference on Friday. “I did not participate in the negotiations, nor did I participate directly in my transfer, it has been a matter between the two clubs.” Barca reportedly had to pay an additional fee of about €1m in order to complete the transfer six months early.
“I will probably travel to Barcelona this weekend. There are still details [to be finalized] but I’m very happy to be able to wear the shirt of the club I have always dreamed of playing for, the biggest club in the world. I have been told wonderful things about the club, the city, and the fans. I have high expectations about the move.” Arthur joined Gremio in 2010 and participated in their Copa Libertadores victory last season.
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