Arsenal defender and academy product, Kieran Gibbs has signed a 4 year deal with West Bromwich Albion in a deal said to be worth £7m.
The full-back who was in the final year of his contract without a renewal offer from Arsenal was saw his first team chances reduced to just 8 starts last season, and having missed the pre-season tour to the far East it was certain he needed to move from the club for a first team opportunity.
Gibbs, 27, was reportedly keen to work with Marco Silva at Vicarage Road but Watford pulled out of a deal for the defender after failing to agree personal terms despite reaching an agreement with Arsenal.
His future will however now be at the Hawthorns as the Baggies’ boss, Tony Pulis has been desperate to sign a left back having gone through the whole of last season without a recognised left-back in his squad.
After the announcement he did pen an emotional goodbye to his boyhood club:
“It has been an amazing journey to play for my childhood club since I was 14. I would love to thank Arsene Wenger for giving me the chance to start my career and fulfill a dream, Thank you to all the fans, the Arsenal staff and especially my team mates who have been there during the special moments and have helped me through some tough times. Now it is time for the next chapter with WBA and I can’t wait to get started with the boys! #UpTheBaggies!”
Pictures credit: West Brom
