Kieran Gibbs has signed with West Brom from Arsenal for a reported £7m fee, ending a 13-year connection with the Gunners.
The 27-year-old penned a four-year deal with the Baggies and will wear the number 3 shirt for the Midlands club.
Gibbs had seen his playing time at Arsenal reduce significantly in recent seasons, as Nacho Monreal became the preferred left back at the club.
And even with the change in formation which sees Arsene Wenger‘s side play with three defenders and two wing backs, Gibbs was still not considered for a starting berth.
Despite this, the English player had nothing but praise for Wenger and the club which he joined at age 14.
‘It has been an amazing journey to play for my childhood club since I was 14.
‘I would like to thank Arsene Wenger for giving me the chance to start my career and fulfil a dream!
“Now it’s time for the next chapter with West Bromwich Albion and I can’t wait to get started with the boys!’ Gibbs said after completing the transfer.
West Brom manager, Tony Pulis, on his part said, ‘We’ve now got a deal which I think is right for the club and I’m really pleased to add a player of this quality and experience to our group.
‘Kieran’s a good age and has made over 200 appearances for Arsenal, represented his country and has Premier League and Champions League experience.
‘To add these qualities to our squad is exactly what we’re looking for.’
Gibbs becomes the club’s fifth signing in this transfer window after the arrivals of Oliver Burke, Gareth Barry, Ahmed Hegazi and Jay Rodriguez.