Germany World Cup winner Shkodran Mustafi is finally a Gunner. The defender joins from La Liga side Valencia and has been Arsene Wenger’s primary defensive target all summer. Mustafi passed his medical held on Friday and has now been officially announced by Arsenal.
The 24-year-old was set to sign a five-year contract extension at Valencia but Wenger agreed to increase his bid and meet the release clause. A fee of £35 million has been agreed which makes him Arsenal’s most expensive defender to date.
The centre-back has been brought as a reinforcement to the defensive line-up which is marred by injuries. The absence of Per Mertesacker and Gabriel Paulista had forced Wenger to look for a replacement in the transfer market and Mustafi certainly fits the bill.
The German is Arsene’s second defensive signing, the first being youngster Rob Holding who is already on his way to cementing his place in the first-team.
“He is at the right age. He has good experience. He is a very focused player who can play with the ball as well,” Wenger told Arsenal.com.
“We have taken a great player but have prepared well for the future.”
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Arsenal has also announced the signing of striker Lucas Perez who will join Gunners immediately whereas Mustafi will join the squad after international duty. He is scheduled to travel with Germany for their match against Finland and Norway on August 31st and September 4th.
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