Arsenal have secured the services of Villarreal’s 24 year old defender, Gabriel Paulista. The Gunners will now direct their attention towards signing a defensive midfielder who will probably cost around the same amount as Paulista. Perrin who was rumored as one of Wenger’s top three transfer targets for this January, has missed out on the chance of playing at the Emirates. In his recent statements, he looked well aware of the fact that there is little hope for him to move to London after Villarreal agreed to sell their center back.

Even though Perrin had the upper hand at some point due to his ability to play as a defensive midfielder as well, it seems that Wenger decided to sign the younger, more defensive alternative. According to Metro, Perrin has a small shred of hope left that he might be offered a deal by Arsenal. It could happen if the North Londoners miss out on all their targets destined to cover the middle section of the pitch. The 29 year old Frenchman is quite versatile and able to play on a position similar to Flamini or Arteta. Seen as a last resort though, it is very likely that Wenger will say pass as Perrin is not quite the long term solution needed on Emirates. Arsenal will be looking to bring in someone younger, and probably with more experience than Perrin who has played for Saint Etienne for his entire career.