Cygan signs for Arsenal

Arsenal today signed Lille centre-back Pascal Cygan for an undisclosed fee.

The 28-year-old, who was voted player of the year in the French First Division two seasons ago, joined the club on the day another defender Martin Keown pledged his future to the current Premiership champions.

Manager Arsene Wenger bolstered his defensive cover with the acquisition of Cygan, who also turned in a number of impressive displays for Lille in the Champions League last season.

“Pascal is a fantastic defender with great ability and has proved that he can compete at the highest level from his performances in the Champions League,” said Wenger.

“He is an extremely constant player and will fit in very well at Arsenal. I am very positive he will be a fantastic asset to the team.”

Cygan, who takes over the number 18 shirt formerly worn by fellow Frenchman Giles Grimandi, said: “I am very excited about joining Arsenal.

“They were the top team in England last season and I’m hoping to help them finish first this year.

“I am also looking forward to working with Arsene Wenger, who is recognised as one of the best coaches as well as being part of a squad with many world class players.”

Veteran England defender Keown, meanwhile, agreed a new two-year deal at Highbury earlier in the day.