After a few days of teasing us all, Arsenal have finally announced the transfer of Spain international Santiago Cazorla from cash strapped Malaga.
The winger was part of Spain’s Euro 2012 winning squad.
Arsenal have given it the old ‘long term contract, undisclosed fee’ spiel, but it’s rumoured to have been a knock down price of around 15m Euros given Malaga’s fiscal woes.
Cazorla is principally a winger, who can also play in an advanced central midfield position. The club made a move for him last summer from Villarreal, but megabucks Malaga, fuelled by Qatari investment, beat us to the punch. A year on and Arsene got his man.
The Arsenal manager said, ‘Santi Cazorla is a great signing for us. He is a player with good experience at both club and international level, who will add significant quality to our squad.
‘He is a versatile, attacking midfield player who can play comfortably on either side of the pitch or centrally. He has good pace, is technically gifted and will be a huge asset to Arsenal Football Club.
We are delighted that he is joining us.’
Meanwhile, the 27 year old added, ‘I’m so happy to be joining Arsenal. This is a club with great players, a fantastic stadium and huge support.
‘The Club has one of the best managers in football and their style of play is recognised and admired all over the world.
‘I’m so excited to be joining one of the greatest teams in Europe and also in the Premier League. I will do my best to help Arsenal challenge for trophies and make all the supporters happy.’
His squad number is TBD, but he is currently in Germany with Arsenal’s training camp and is in line to make his debut in the friendly v Koln on Sunday. Welcome to Arsenal Santi.
