Blues bring in Djourou

Gunners youngster joins on loan

By James Pearson   Last updated: 10th August 2007   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Blues bring in Djourou

Djourou: Blues switch

I am delighted Arsene Wenger has allowed Johan to join us.

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Birmingham have made their tenth signing of the summer in landing Arsenal's Johan Djourou on loan.

The 20-year-old is due to stay with Blues until January 2008, although there is an option to extend the deal to include the whole of the season.

The Switzerland international, who joined The Gunners from Swiss club Etoile Carouge in summer 2003, made 21 Premier League appearances last season.

However, Arsene Wenger has allowed the Ivory Coast-born defender to continue his education at St Andrew's following the arrival of Bacary Sagna.

Blues boss Steve Bruce believes Djourou has a long Arsenal future ahead of him.

"I honestly think that Djourou can be an Arsenal defender for 10 years," stated Bruce. "I am delighted Arsene Wenger has allowed Johan to join us.

"He has got strength, pace, great ability on the ball, is a very good footballer and is comfortable at the back and in midfield.

Birmingham have signed Djourou in time for him to be in contention to make his debut against Chelsea in this weekend's season opener.