Fabio Vieira has spoken of his admiration for Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe after completing his move to Arsenal.
The 22-year-old has joined the Gunners in a deal worth around £34million from Porto, becoming the club’s first major signing of the summer. Brazilian teenager Marquinhos was signed earlier this month.
In his first interview as an Arsenal player, Vieira revealed he spoke about the move with Nuno Tavares, who he has played with for Portugal’s Under-21s side, as he discussed some of his new teammates.
“I’m a fan of Saka and Smith Rowe, I really like the way they play,” Vieira told the club’s official website. “Odegaard is quite similar to me.”
He added: “I’ve had the chance to speak to [Tavares]. He told me a bit about the club.
“There are fantastic people here who’ve helped me with everything I’ve needed, which is key.”
Rumours of the signing being close to completion last week came almost out of the blue, with much of Arsenal’s transfer window so far centred on links with Gabriel Jesus, Youri Tielemans and Raphinha.
Vieira provided 14 assists in the league despite making just 15 starts across the season, giving an insight into the kind of creativty he is capable of bringing to the Gunners team.
“I’m an attacking player who looks to find space between the lines to be able to finish off moves either with assists or by scoring goals,” Vieira said.
“I think those are the main attributes that Arsenal fans can expect from me. I’ll always give my all for the team.
“My strengths are my passing and shooting ability. I think those are my main strengths. As for what I need to work on, I’d say the physical side of my game.”
