Arsenal have completed the signing of Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu from Bologna.
The 22-year-old was expected to complete a switch to Tottenham Hotspur earlier this summer before the Lilywhites prioritised a move for Barcelona's Emerson Royal instead.
Reports emerged on deadline day that Arsenal were working to get a £16m deal for Tomiyasu over the line, and the Gunners confirmed the arrival of the versatile centre-back 15 minutes before the deadline after Hector Bellerin's loan move to Real Betis.
Speaking to arsenal.com, technical director Edu said: "We're delighted to have signed Takehiro. We've been watching him for a while now and we're pleased that we have reached an agreement with Bologna. He is an important addition to our squad."
Manager Mikel Arteta added: "Takehiro is a strong defender with good experience in Serie A and at international level. He's a versatile defender with great defensive qualities, high technical ability and composure on the ball.
"He will be an important member of our squad. We look forward to Takehiro joining up with us when he returns from international duty."
Tomiyasu leaves Bologna after scoring three goals and claiming three assists in 64 appearances, and he will wear the number 18 shirt at Arsenal.
Ben Knapton
