Arsenal have signed centre-back Laurent Koscielny from Lorient for a reported fee of £8m. The 24-year-old Frenchman, who has signed a long-term contract, is also eligible to play for Poland.
"We identified him as a very strong centre-half, who has made big progress very quickly," said Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.
Having sold Philippe Senderos to Fulham and with William Gallas and Mikael Silvestre believed to have played their last games for the club after their contracts expired, Koscielny will provide Wenger with more defensive depth.
"Koscielny is a central defender with great ability who performed extremely well last season for Lorient," added Wenger.
"He has shown he is mentally strong, he's a fighter and a very strong competitor. Koscielny is a great addition to our squad."
"In Arsene Wenger, Arsenal have one of the best managers in the world and I can't wait to work with him and do my best for the Arsenal supporters," said Koscielny, who will wear the number six shirt next season.
