Paulinho, part of Brazil’s World Cup squad, will return to Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande after one season at Barcelona.
His surprisingly successful campaign in Catalonia, where he helped Barca clinch a domestic double, saw him score nine goals in 49 appearances.
A statement on Barcelona’s website revealed his departure:
"‘FC Barcelona and Guangzhou Evergrande have reached an agreement for the loan transfer of Paulinho Bezerra for one season, with a mandatory purchase option for the Chinese club.’"
The Brazilian becomes the second central midfielder Barcelona have let go this summer. Legend Andres Iniesta is set to finish his illustrious career in Japan with Vissel Kobe, while the Paulinho transfer perhaps comes as more of a shock considering his unexpected prosperity at Camp Nou.
His move away from Barcelona might have ramifications elsewhere, too. Namely for Arsenal, whose interest in Paulinho’s former teammate Andre Gomes has dominated headlines recently.
The Portuguese struggled to garner game time at Barca, however he should feel more confident as more space has freed up in a competitive squad.
Barcelona need midfield reinforcements
While Ivan Rakitic and Sergio Busquets look the obvious central midfield pairing for Barcelona heading into the new season, Paulinho’s exit could reinvigorate Andre Gomes’ career.
His proposed transfer to Arsenal was chiefly down to being out-of-favour in a Barcelona shirt. Gunners boss Unai Emery indicated his keenness to entice Gomes out of Spain, implying regularity in a transforming lineup would be guaranteed.
Barcelona, understandably, cannot survive on their starters alone. Unless they have a midfield transfer in the firing line, Andre Gomes is most likely Ernesto Valverde’s next option.
An injury to Rakitic or Busquets could leave the door ajar, and provide the catalyst for Andre Gomes’, so far, low-key career.
For Arsenal that may deter their interest. If Barcelona are desperate to hang onto the Portuguese, his asking price will rocket, or they will deny the Gunners completely.
Emery’s busy transfer window did hint at Gomes potentially making the switch. Purchases of Sokratis, Bernd Leno and Stephan Lichtsteiner underline the Spaniard is prepared to fork out funds to create the side he wants.
These recent revelations, though, supply a dent to his plans.
Arsenal should now focus on Lucas Torreira
Uruguay’s recent elimination from the World Cup, coupled with Paulinho’s return to China, means Arsenal should turn their full attentions to Lucas Torreira.
The handy centre midfielder, Uruguay’s steadfast core for much of their fruitful World Cup run, has long been on Unai Emery’s books.
He is set for a medical with Arsenal when his rest period after the tournament is over. He should become the fourth signing the Gunners make this summer.
And that is where they should stop. Andre Gomes would likely be a useful replacement for West Ham-bound Jack Wilshere, however perhaps these are signs Emery shouldn’t bite off more than he can chew.
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Ensuring Torreira makes the switch from Sampdoria, instead of chasing what seems an unlikely Gomes transfer, is the smartest option.
The Portuguese could remain a target in the future, but for now there are too many factors for a successful deal to occur.