The 24-year-old will complete a £14m move from Villarreal imminently and is likely to take the number made vacant by Thomas Vermaelen in the summer.

Vermaelen transferred to Barcelona but was not replaced by the Gunners as the summer window slammed shut.

HIGH FIVE: Paulista looks certain to take the No.5 jersey [GETTY]

However, it's better late than never for Arsene Wenger who will send Joel Campbell the other way on loan until the end of the season.

Paulista looks likely to follow Gunners greats Steve Bould, Martin Keown and invincible Kolo Toure in wearing the No.5 jersey.

The Brazilian has already passed a medical at The Emirates and Arsenal hero Charlie Nicholas thinks he'll be a big hit at the club.