Flamini seals Arsenal move

The 20-year-old has signed what Arsenal have described as a long-term contract despite coming under criticism from Marseille boss Jose Anigo.

HIghbury boss Arsene Wenger has a great record in bringing through young talent and he believes his new addition has what it takes to make a name for himself at North London.

"We're very pleased to welcome Mathieu to the club. He may be young, but already he has a good level of top flight experience," Wenger told the club's website.

"He is very powerful and plays with great creativity, both as a defensive and attacking midfielder, and will be a tremendous addition to our squad."

Flamini said that he was happy to be joining The Gunners, and is looking forward to meeting his new team-mates.

"I am really happy to be joining a club which has been so successful in recent times and throughout its long history," said Flamini.

"The squad is full of top class players and I know that I will learn a lot from them all.

"It's a very exciting time for me, and I'm looking forward to meeting up with my new team-mates very soon."