Arsenal sign Spanish left back Nacho Monreal on transfer deadline day

Arsenal have announced the signing of Malaga left-back Nacho Monreal for around 10 million pounds. Monreal has agreed a long-term deal, reportedly four and a half years. The 26-year-old left back has made 54 appearances for Malaga since joining from Osasuna in 2011 and also won seven caps for Spain. Arsenal made their move after Kieran Gibbs was ruled out for three weeks with a thigh strain sustained in Wednesday's 2-2 Premier League draw with Liverpool. That left the club with only Andre Santos as a left back, and the Brazilian hasn't impressed at all this season. "We are delighted that Nacho Monreal has agreed to join us," said Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. "We have been monitoring him for some time now and are really pleased that we've been able to agree this move today. Monreal is a strong left-sided defender with good experience at both club and international level. He is a technically gifted player, a good crosser in the final third and strong in the air. Monreal will add quality to our squad and of course, to our defensive unit. We all look forward to him playing for us." The defender is Wenger's only signing in the January transfer window. Arsenal won't be able to play him in the Champions League though, as he has already appeared in the competition with Malaga. But he will probably make his first appearance for the new club on Saturday when Arsenal meet Stoke in the Premier League, here are the odds for that match from Bet365: Arsenal win - 4/9 Draw - 7/2 Stoke win - 8/1