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Atletico Madrid confirmed the signing of Brazilian defender c from Valencia on Wednesday until the end of the season.
Valencia announced through a statement that the 33-year-old centre-back had “reached a deal to end his contract” with the club.
“Valencia CF and Gabriel Paulista have reached an agreement to terminate the player’s contract,” the statement said.
“Gabriel Paulista has worn the Valencia CF jersey for the last seven seasons and has played a total of 253 games, being one of the team’s captains.
“From his arrival in August 2017, the Spanish-Brazilian defender has shown commitment and dedication throughout this journey in which he has managed to win the 2019 Copa del Rey and get to the final of the Copa del Rey in 2022.
“Valencia CF wish him the best of luck in his career.”
Gabriel Paulista joined Valencia in 2017 from Premier League side Arsenal, playing 213 times for Los Che.
Atletico centre-back Jose Gimenez was injured against Valencia in the capital club’s 2-0 win on Sunday, and is expected to miss three weeks.
With key games against Real Madrid in La Liga and Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey approaching, as well as the return to the Champions League, Atletico moved quickly to find a replacement.
Diego Simeone’s side have also signed midfielder Arthur Vermeeren from Royal Antwerp and goalkeeper Horatiu Moldovan from Rapid Bucharest in the winter window.
Valencia also loaned 21-year-old winger Peter Federico from Real Madrid on Wednesday.