We have finally completed the deal to bring defender Pablo Mari on loan for the rest of the season.

Mari was unveiled at London Colney today, and will join for the rest of the season from Brazilian side Flamengo. The fees involved are thought to be a £4m loan until the end of the season with a further £8m to make him permanent over the summer.

The Spaniard has only been with Flamengo for six months, yet he already has a Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian league to his name along with being voted the best Centre Back in America, as he heads to Arsenal with on eye on The Emirates Cup no doubt.

On Arsenal.com the left-footed Centre Back said:

“When I spoke to my agent, it was a big thing that Arsenal were interested in me, this is one of the best clubs in the world, so I’m absolutely delighted to be joining. I’m really looking forward to playing in this jersey and helping my team…”

With Calum Chambers out for the season, and other defenders Sead Kolasinac, Mustafi, Bellerin, Tierney and Holding all struggling to hold down their fitness consistently, Mari looks like a strong addition to Arteta’s army and will give his fellow countryman more options at the back. The good news, as confirmed by Orny, is that the injury Mustafi picked up on Monday at Bournemouth is just a sprain, and nothing worse than that.

There could even be another player coming in on loan, according to Ornstein who earlier tweeted:

Everyone at ArsenalShorts Towers wishes you the best of luck Pablo, I’m sure you’re already a big fan of ours!

Welcome to The Arsenal!