Jakub Kiwior's move to Arsenal has been confirmed - and Spezia's sporting director had plenty to say about his club's former player.
Arsenal announced on Monday that the 22-year-old Poland international has joined the Gunners on a long-term contract, and will wear the number 15 shirt formerly worn by Ray Parlour and Cesc Fabregas.
Unlike the aforementioned duo, Kiwior is primarily a centre-back, although can play in defensive midfield and at left-back as well.
His strength on the ball and tough-tackling ability will no doubt have attracted Arsenal to the defender, who was a key figure during Poland's World Cup campaign.
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A left-footed defender, he will likely compete with Gabriel Magalhaes for a spot in the Gunners starting lineup.
Speaking after the move was confirmed, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: "It's great that Jakub is joining us. He's a young versatile defender who has shown huge potential and qualities with Spezia in Serie A, and also at international level with Poland.
"Jakub is a player who will give us strength and quality to our defensive unit. We welcome Jakub and his family to Arsenal and look forward to working with him."
Prior to his exit, Spezia's sporting director Stefano Melissano reserved words of praise for his now former centre-back.
Spezia sporting director on Jakub Kiwior, Arsenal move
Speaking to DAZN (quotes via HITC), Melissano stated: "[Kiwior's move to Arsenal] is a pride for everyone, from the club to player.
"We are proud and happy that Jakub will have this experience at one of the world's top ten clubs.
"We've lost an excellent player and youngster, but we are still Spezia. We will continue to have our identity. We're happy.
"Our transfer market was the result of work planned in the previous months. Now, we have to fix something [after Kiwior's exit].
Arsenal will certainly hope that Kiwior can leave the same lasting impression at the Emirates Stadium that he clearly has at Spezia, and will also be hoping that he can provide the quality expected as the Gunners challenge for the Premier League title.
Topics: Arsenal, Premier League, Transfers, Mikel Arteta
Ryan Smart