‘A smooth operator’ – 12 quotes on Arsenal’s new signing Fabio Vieira

The name Vieira has a lot of history at Arsenal, but now Portuguese midfielder Fabio Vieira will be hoping to follow in his namesake Patrick’s footsteps for the Gunners in the Premier League.

If he has even half of the talent as the legendary Arsenal captain, then they have found themselves a bargain. Signed from FC Porto this summer for just shy of £35million, the 22-year-old playmaker is the first addition of the summer to Mikel Arteta’s budding squad.

Here are 12 of the best quotes on Arsenal’s new signing.

“Fabio is a player with special qualities who is comfortable with the ball in the final third of the pitch,” Arsenal’s technical director said after the club announced the transfer.

“We are all looking forward to working with him and enjoying his future contribution to Arsenal.”

“I am very excited that we have identified and signed such a special talent,” the Arsenal boss said on Vieira’s arrival.

“Fabio is a very creative player that will bring high quality and versatility to our attacking play. We welcome Fabio and his family to our club and are looking forward to starting work with him ahead of the new season.”

“I think it’s a really exciting signing for Arsenal,” Portuguese football journalist Tom Kundert assessed.

“Without a doubt he’s one of Portugal’s most promising, up-and-coming talents. He’s very stylish, and an extremely smooth operator. In terms of players currently in the Premier League, I’d say he’s similar in style to Bruno Fernandes. Even his physique is similar in a way.

“He’s a really, really potent attacking weapon. For me, the thing that makes him stand out as a star is his vision. He is a fantastic passer.

“He’s one of those players who can spot a pass and you think ‘My god. I didn’t even see