New Centreback

As the title who suggests, Arsenal has signed a new centreback who is set to replace the likes of William Gallas, Mikael Silvestre and Sol Campbell who are all tipped to leave. So here are so pictures and facts on the Gunner's latest signing.

Name: Laurent Koscielny (pronounced as 'cos-she'll-knee)

Date of birth: 10 September 1985

Place of birth: Tulle, France (he also has Polish ancestry)

Height: 1.87cm (6'1.5")

Koscielny began his youth career with French side, Guingamp at which he managed to impressed his coach and was given a senior contract. He stayed on until 2007, making 40 appearances.

He then transferred to another Ligue 2 side, Tours and played in their colours for two years. During those times, he scored 6 goals in 67 appearances.

He then moved to Ligue 1 side, Lorient in which he played a vital role in securing the side's final seventh position in the league. In his one year stint there, he made 35 appearances and found the back of the net on 3 occasions.

And on the 7th of July, the Frenchman sealed his move to The Emirates in a transfer that cost the Gunners 8.5 million pound.

The latest Gunner will be wearing the number 6 which was previously won by Phillipe Senderos who had just left The Emirates for Craven Cottage (Fulham).

And just an interesting fact here. Koscielny enjoys chess a lot and is looking into challenging Arsene Wenger frequently to hone his skills. =)

Well, I don't know about you, but I hope his arrival will strengthen Arsenal's defense. And of course, if they are to truly do that, they'll need to look for a new keeper and probably more centrebacks. Anyway, I am looking forward to a good Thomas Vermaelen-Laurent Koscielny partnership in the upcoming season. Koscielny and the partnership will certainly be tested with Arsenal's first game being against Liverpool on the 14th of August. That's TWO days before my 22nd birthday!!