Wenger confirms Arsenal swoop for Squillaci

Arsene Wenger confirmed on Thursday that Arsenal have signed France defender Sebastien Squillaci from Sevilla.

Wenger moved for Squillaci to increase his defensive options after releasing William Gallas, Sol Campbell, Mikael Silvestre and Philippe Senderos during the close-season.

“We needed a centre-back of quality and experience if possible, and at the right price – he was all of that,” Wenger said.

“He is a real defender and is good in the one against one, good in the air, and can score goals on set-pieces as well. I believe he will be suited to the English game.

“He will train with us tomorrow (Friday) morning, but will not be involved on Saturday.”

Squillaci becomes Wenger’s third signing since the end of last season following the captures of Marouane Chamakh and Laurent Koscielny.

The 30-year-old former Lyon centre-back has won 20 caps for France and played at the recent World Cup in South Africa.

He won’t feature at Blackburn this weekend as he is short of match fitness, but is eligible to play for the Gunners in the Champions League after pulling out of Sevilla’s play-off clash against Braga.

Wenger still hopes to sign Fulham’s Australian goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, even though the west London club have already turned down two Arsenal offers for the 37-year-old.

“We are where we are – we have four great ‘keepers and it is important we give confidence to them for the next game,” Wenger said.

“I do not rule it out, but at the moment I say I am not in a position to sign anybody. At the moment, it is all dead.”