Barca sign Gio

The Catalan giants' Dutch coach Frank Rijkaard had expressed his desire to bring his compatriot to Camp Nou after van Bronckhorst failed to establish himself in North London.

Rijkaard wanted to take van Bronckhorst on loan for the season with a view to a permanent move and those terms have been accepted by Arsenal.

Gunners boss Wenger paid £8.5 million to lure the 28-year-old from Rangers two years ago but van Bronckhorst has been unable to cement his spot in the first team.

Van Bronckhorst is fearful his spot with the Dutch national team, where he plays left back, is under threat and with Wenger also boasting a wealth of midfield options, he has no qualms in releasing the player.

"He is a regular member of the national team at left back, and as well as Ashley Cole, we have a few players who can play there," said Wenger.

"The move gives him a chance to keep his position in the national team.

"We also have many players in the middle of the park and the competition is too high so I can afford to let somebody go and still be strong enough in the middle of the park."

Van Bronckhorst admits he has enjoyed his stint in North London but needed to quit Highbury to preserve his claims of figuring at Euro 2004 for Holland.

"I've really enjoyed the last two years at Arsenal, me and my family feel very settled here," he told the club's website. "But what I need now is to play matches especially with the prospect of Holland competing in Euro 2004 at the end of the season.

"I'm really looking forward to joining up with Barcelona, I have great respect for them and the way they play and of course for the coach Frank Rijkaard.

"I'd like to wish everyone at Arsenal the best of luck for the season, which will hopefully see the club win more trophies."