Former Juve defender Stephan Lichtsteiner joins Arsenal

Arsenal announced its first significant signing under new head coach Unai Emery on Tuesday, with Stephan Lichtsteiner agreeing to join the club on a free transfer from Juventus.

The 34-year-old ended an illustrious Juventus career after the 2017-18 campaign with his seventh top-flight winners medal in as many seasons.

The right-back made over 250 appearances for the Italian champion following his move from Lazio in 2011, and will enter the World Cup in Russia this month as one of Switzerland's most-capped players.

“Stephan brings huge experience and leadership to our squad," Emery said. "He’s a player with great quality with a very positive and determined attitude. Stephan will improve us on and off the pitch."

Lichtsteiner's arrival signals Arsenal's intent to add experienced defenders this summer, as the club is also reportedly closing in on a £16-million move to sign centre-back Sokratis Papastathopoulos from Borussia Dortmund.