Gilberto Silva has become one of the highest-paid players in Greece but the former Arsenal midfielder insists that is not the reason he joined Panathinaikos.

The Brazilian World Cup winner completed his £1million transfer yesterday, signing a contract which will see him earn £6m over three years.

But Gilberto insists he is not looking to wind down his career. The 31-year-old: "I'm hungry to win more titles.

"I came to Greece because I have big ambitions, it's very important for me to be able to continue to give my best. I'm sure we will qualify through to the group stages of the Champions League and I'm excited about being a Panathinaikos player."

Gilberto admitted he was stunned by the reception he received at Athens Airport from a crowd of around 2,000 Panathinaikos supporters.

"I'm lost for words trying to thank the fantastic fans that welcomed me so warmly," he said. "I will respond by giving 100 per cent on the field."

Arsenal begin their pre-season at Barnet tomorrow when they will be without Cesc Fabregas as the Spain midfielder is still on holiday following Euro 2008. Defender Bacary Sagna is set to feature for the first time since suffering an ankle injury in March.