The petition was launched by the online content hub Villarreal Report, which this week said the signing would be “an act of pure betrayal of the highest order” against the club’s supporters and Villarreal’s values. “The darkest day in the club’s history is drawing closer by the second,” it said on social media.

Villarreal have had a very busy summer so far, and that is set to continue with another signing coming in the door at La Ceramica.During the transfer window, Villarreal have been keen to bring in a

New signing Viktor Gyokeres could make his first start for Arsenal after featuring for 20 minutes last time out, while Cristhian Mosquera and Martin Zubimendi will also be hoping for more game time after coming off the bench. Noni Madueke could also make his home debut.