Arthur completes "dream" Barcelona move early

Brazilian midfielder Arthur will arrive in Barcelona ahead of the new season after his transfer to the Camp Nou from Grêmio was brought forward.

The 21-year-old was set to become a Barça player in January as part of a deal worth up to €39million, and Grêmio president Romildo Bolzán Jr had insisted the promising talent would not be leaving Brazil before then.

At a news conference, Grêmio's executive director Andre Zanotta confirmed the transfer was complete apart from "small details", an agreement to bring the move forward having been reached.

"Grêmio and Barcelona are closing the sale of Arthur, missing small details that will be ready tomorrow," Zanotta said on Friday.

"Arthur will travel to Barcelona this weekend. He's here to say goodbye to Grêmio."

Arthur, who played for Brazil at under-17 level and has been part of the matchday squad for the senior national team, paid tribute to Grêmio for giving him a start in football.

He reflected fondly on the memory of winning the Copa Libertadores, but said of his move to Spain: "I'm realising a dream.

"My exit has been transparent, I'm very happy with how it went, my departure has been good for all parties.

"Barcelona asked to advance my transfer to this summer, I did not participate in the negotiations, nor did I participate directly in my transfer - it is a matter between the two clubs.

"My trip to Barcelona will probably be this weekend. I'm very happy to wear the shirt of the club where I dreamed of playing, it's the biggest in the world."

He added: "I wanted to do this last press conference, for the love I have with the Grêmio fans.

"It has been seven years of hard work and the Arena Grêmio is one of the places where I like to be most. I will be eternally grateful to everyone here. This is a see you later and not a goodbye, I hope to come back one day. [Grêmio] will continue to have a great team without me."