Spicer signs for Cherries

Bournemouth have completed the signing of John Spicer from Arsenal permanently.

Spicer had spent the past three months on loan with The Cherries and produced a string of dominant displays for the League One side.

The club had been keen to hang on to the 21-year-old and were looking at either a loan until the season's end or a permanent arrangement.

Arsenal have agreed to allow the young midfielder to leave Highbury permanently, with Spicer signing a contract until 2006.

After coming through the ranks with the Premiership champions, Spicer made just one appearance for Arsene Wenger's side.

His permanent arrival on the South Coast will be perceived as something of a coup for The Cherries, as there were several other clubs keen on Spicer.

Spicer's signing was pushed through in time for the starlet to make his permanent debut against Swindon Town on Saturday.