London: Sebastien Squillaci became the latest French defender to join Arsenal after his transfer was confirmed by manager Arsene Wenger on Thursday.
The Premier League club said Squillaci's move from Spanish side Sevilla was not concluded, with minor details still to be finalized, but the 30-year-old center back is set to take part in training with his new teammates on Friday.
Squillaci, who started one game for France at the World Cup in June, will link up with compatriots Laurent Koscielny, Gael Clichy and Bacary Sagna at the London club.
"We needed a center back of quality and experience if possible, and at the right price — Sebastien was all of that," Wenger said.
"He is a real defender and is good in the one against one, good in the air, and can score goals on set pieces as well. I believe he will be suited to the English game."
Wenger, who said Squillaci would not be available to play in Arsenal's Premier League match at Blackburn on Saturday, has been looking to sign another center back despite paying a reported 10 million pounds ($15.5 million) to sign Koscielny from Lorient in July.
Arsenal released defenders William Gallas, Mikael Silvestre and Sol Campbell over the summer and sold Philippe Senderos to Fulham, leaving Wenger short of cover in that position.
Former Lyon and Monaco defender Squillaci asked to be left out of Sevilla's squad for its two-legged Champions League playoff against Braga to ensure he could play in the tournament with Arsenal this season.
Wenger tried to sign goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer earlier this summer but had a bid turned down by Fulham. With the transfer window closing on Tuesday, the French manager said there were no other transfers imminent.
"We are where we are — we have four great keepers and it is important we give confidence to them for the next game," Wenger said. "At the moment I say I am not in a position to sign anybody."
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