Arsenal have signed Auxerre defender Bacary Sagna for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old has signed a long-term deal and admitted: “It is great to be joining Arsenal.”

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger told the club’s website: “He is a very capable defender and has played consistently well for Auxerre in recent seasons.

“He plays mainly at right-back, but can also play along the defence or in midfield. He is strong and quick.”

And Sagna added: “I know Abou Diaby from our time together at Auxerre and also Gael Clichy and Mathieu Flamini from the French Under-21 team.

“Also Arsene Wenger is a major reason why I have signed for Arsenal. He is an excellent manager with a fantastic record and I am really looking forward to working with him.”