Arsenal complete loan signing of Cedric Soares from Southampton (Photos)

Arsenal have completed the signing of Portuguese defender Cedric Soares from Southampton on loan.

The 28-year-old, who has six months remaining on his contract at Southampton, will be with Mikel Arteta’s side on loan until the end of the season.

On completing his move before the January transfer window closed, he said: ‘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.

‘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. 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.’

Arsenal technical director Edu 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.