"He told me..." - Jakub Kiwior reveals text message from former Arsenal defender after Emirates move

New Arsenal signing Jakub Kiwior has revealed a text message he was sent from a former Gunners defender after his arrival at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal confirmed the signing of Kiwior from Serie A side Spezia on Monday evening, with the Polish centre-back signing a long-term contract.

He has been handed the number 15 shirt once worn by Gunners legends Ray Parlour and Cesc Fabregas, and is immediately available to take part in training.

Kiwior could make his Arsenal debut on Friday, when Mikel Arteta's side take on Manchester City in the FA Cup fourth round at the Etihad Stadium.

Speaking to the club's official website, Arteta said that the 22-year-old has 'huge potential', with sporting director Edu stating he was 'delighted' with the move.

And Kiwior gave his first reactions to joining the Gunners, revealing he was contacted by a former Arsenal defender after the completion of the deal.

Kiwior reveals text prior to Arsenal move

In his first official interview after moving to the club, Kiwior said that he had been in touch with former Gunners defender Krystian Bielik, who joined Arsenal in 2015.

The 25-year-old, who has played alongside the club's newest addition for the Poland senior team, made two appearances for the Gunners, both in the League Cup.

He subsequently moved to Derby on a permanent deal for a fee reported as under £8 million, with the potential to rise to £10 million.

Bielik established himself as one of English football's top defensive midfielders outside of the Premier League, although two serious knee injuries halted his progress. After the Rams' relegation to League One, he joined Birmingham on loan in the summer.

Kiwior explained: "I remember when Wojciech Szczesny and Krystian Bielik played here. I haven't had a chance to speak to Wojciech yet - we'll definitely have a chat when we meet up for international duty.

"I got a message from Krystian straight away congratulating me. That was nice, plus he told me to text him if I had any problems or anything like that. I'm really happy to get such a positive reaction right away."