The Villarreal centre-half Gabriel Paulista says his agent is in talks with Arsenal over a possible January transfer.

The 24-year-old Brazilian, who has become a cornerstone of a Villarreal team that have gone unbeaten since early November, has said he dreams of a move to the Premier League.

Arsène Wenger is determined to sign defensive cover this month as injuries have exposed a lack of depth in his squad. Having departed the summer transfer window with only five senior defenders, Wenger has said that it would be “too risky” if he did not supplement his numbers, particularly as Mathieu Debuchy is out for three months following shoulder surgery.

Villarreal want to take the Costa Rica striker, Joel Campbell, on loan from Arsenal for the rest of the season, which might make it easier for Wenger to deal with them. Campbell has grown frustrated at his lack of starting opportunities.

Gabriel spoke out on Saturday, after playing in Villarreal’s home win over Athletic Bilbao, and he confirmed that there was interest in him from Arsenal. He joined the Spanish club from Vitoria in Brazil for £2.5m in August 2013..

“Whether I go to Arsenal or stay at Villarreal, I won’t lose my head,” Gabriel said. “I’m very calm. My head is at Villarreal and I’m very focused. My agent is working on making sure I continue being calm.”

Gabriel spoke in a previous interview about his desire to play in England. “Playing in the Premier League is one of my dreams,” he said. “I have spoken to my agent about this.”