Cedric Soares is delighted with his move to Arsenal.

The Southampton fullback joins the Gunners on-loan to the end of the season.

The Portugal international became the second signing of the Mikel Arteta era when he joined the club, and he cannot wait to get started.

"It has been a while, to be fair," he told Arsenal Player. "We were close a few years ago, so it's not the first time. It didn't happen that time but now thank God it came true. I'm super happy.

"Obviously it was important for me in my career to come here. Southampton gave me the opportunity to play in the Premier League but obviously it's amazing this step, to come here and play for Arsenal.

"To be able to reach this point is unbelievable.

"One hundred per cent that I will give all my best every day and every game," he added. "I try to be a guy with energy, a player that goes up and down. I like to consider myself a team player and yes, what can I say? It's difficult when you need to talk about yourself! But again, I will give my 100 per cent for the team and for the fans."

Gunners technical director Edu also said: “Cedric is a defender with good experience of the Premier League, and of course at international level. He is another strong addition to our defensive unit who will provide our squad with quality. I know he is a player who plays with absolute full commitment and energy. We are all looking forward to going into the last stages of the season with Cedric as part of the club."