Brazilian wonderkid Gabriel Moscardo snubbed Arsenal and several other European giants to join Paris Saint-Germain in a £17 million deal.

The 18-year-old midfielder, already a star in Brazil, signs a contract until 2028 but will remain on loan at Corinthians until the end of the season.

SAO PAULO, BRAZIL - DECEMBER 2: Gabriel Moscardo of Corinthians runs with the ball during the match between Corinthians and Internacional as part of Brasileirao Series A 2023 at Neo Quimica Arena on December 2, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)
SAO PAULO, BRAZIL – DECEMBER 2: Gabriel Moscardo of Corinthians runs with the ball during the match between Corinthians and Internacional as part of Brasileirao Series A 2023 at Neo Quimica Arena on December 2, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)

Young Brazilian midfielder Gabriel Moscardo has set hearts aflutter in France, signing for Paris Saint-Germain in a £17 million deal. This news stings for Arsenal fans, as the Gunners were among the top European clubs vying for the 18-year-old wonderkid.

Moscardo, already a regular in Brazil’s Serie A and a prospect for their U23 side, attracted the attention of Liverpool, Chelsea, Barcelona, and of course, Arsenal. But in the end, the allure of PSG’s Parisian lights and Champions League ambitions proved too tempting.

“I’m very happy to be joining Paris Saint-Germain,” Moscardo declared, calling it “one of the best days of my life.” He’s signed a contract until 2028, but don’t expect to see him in Parisian blue just yet. The deal includes a loan back to Corinthians for the remainder of the season, allowing him to hone his skills in familiar surroundings.

SAO PAULO, BRAZIL - DECEMBER 2: Gabriel Moscardo of Corinthias reacts after losing the match between Corinthians and Internacional as part of Brasileirao Series A 2023 at Neo Quimica Arena on December 2, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)
SAO PAULO, BRAZIL – DECEMBER 2: Gabriel Moscardo of Corinthias reacts after losing the match between Corinthians and Internacional as part of Brasileirao Series A 2023 at Neo Quimica Arena on December 2, 2023 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)

The transfer saga wasn’t without its twists. Medical tests initially put the brakes on the move, revealing a foot fracture for Moscardo. However, PSG remained committed, ultimately pushing Chelsea aside to secure the prodigy’s signature.

Moscardo’s eyes now sparkle with ambition. “I’m looking forward to joining up with the squad and to meeting the team and the coaching staff,” he enthused. “I hope to win many trophies with Les Rouge et Bleu and to make the fans happy.”

While Arsenal fans lick their wounds, reflecting on what might have been, PSG are basking in the acquisition of a promising talent.