SV Hamburg has secured the permanent signing of Portuguese midfielder Fabio Vieira from Arsenal, following his loan spell with the Bundesliga club last season. The 26-year-old midfielder joins Hamburg on a long-term contract with the transfer fee reported to be around €9 million ($10.4 million).

Vieira, who scored seven goals for Hamburg during his loan period, returns to the club after Arsenal initially appeared to seek a higher transfer fee this summer. The move is regarded by Hamburg’s management as a significant step in the club’s strategic development.

Kathleen Krüger, Hamburg’s board member for sport, described Vieira’s return as “a strong sign of our development.” Sporting director Jonas Costa emphasized Vieira’s impact on the team last season, noting that the midfielder “was an absolute difference-maker” and brought qualities that elevated the club’s overall performance. Costa added that the club was pleased that Vieira had committed to their vision and was now a long-term member of the squad.

In addition to the Vieira transfer, Hamburg announced two further signings on Tuesday. Moroccan right back Zakaria El Ouahdi has joined from Belgian side Genk, while Norwegian left back David Möller Wolfe has arrived on loan from Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers, which was recently relegated.

Vieira expressed enthusiasm about returning to Hamburg, stating that he had felt the club’s determination to sign him and was eager to resume his career with the team. The permanent acquisition marks a key move for Hamburg as they prepare for the upcoming season.