Arsenal have clinched a deal for Southampton fullback Cedric Soares.
The Sun says the incoming Portuguese defender, costing £5million from Southampton, should have been billed as some instant relief for the coach's teamsheet.
However Cedric is carrying a foot injury and is not due to play for another three weeks - having come off early versus Crystal Palace just over a week ago.
In that time, Arsenal have Burnley, Newcastle and Olympiacos on their agenda around a winter break.
The 28-year-old's contract at St Mary's expires in the summer and Saints are understood to have pondered offering him a fresh deal.
Talks with Arsenal only began on Monday before Southampton agreed to cash in, pending full confirmation.