Al Wahda have announced the signing of former Arsenal midfielder Denilson from Sao Paulo on a three-year contract as the Abu Dhabi outfit continue to strengthen their ranks ahead of the new season.

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The Brazilian becomes new boss Javier Aguirre’s first signing and will replace Moroccan international Adel Hermach as the club’s fourth foreign player, alongside Argentine pair Sebastian Tagliabue and Damian Diaz and Kuwait centre-back Hussain Fadhel.

Denilson, 27, said on Saturday that he was leaving the city of his birth for the UAE “with a heavy heart because everybody knows about my passion for Sao Paulo.”

Having broken through the ranks at Sao Paulo, Denilson went on to captain his country at U15 and U17 level before being brought to the Emirates by Arsene Wenger in 2006.

A total of 153 appearances in all competitions followed over the course of seven years at Arsenal but Denilson struggled with injuries and form and was shipped out on loan to Sao Paulo for the final 18 months of his contract.

Having had his contract terminated at Arsenal, Denilson made the permanent switch to Sao Paulo, signing a four-year deal in 2013.

Denilson helped his side to Copa Sudamericana glory in 2012 and it will be hoped by Wahda officials and supporters that he can lead his new side to similar glory.

Wahda finished fourth last-season, a disappointing end to a year where the side were expected to challenge for top honours.

It saw Sami Al Jaber’s brief tenure come to a premature end, with former Atletico Madrid and Japan boss Aguirre announced as new head coach last week.

Denilson may not be the last arrival at Wahda this summer with Diaz’s future believed to be in doubt, should the Mexican boss find a suitable replacement.