I asked the question ‘why has Arsenal signed Jakub Kiwior from Spezia.’ He became Mikel Arteta’s second significant incoming player, joining Brighton’s Leandro Trossard.

A fee of £17.5million was paid to the Italian club for Kiwior but the contract provides for a further £3.5million in bonus payments based on performances and appearances. The initial deal lasts until 2027 with a further optional year.

Kiwior’s position with Spezia was usually on the left-hand side of a back three but he can also be used in midfield. Arteta said the answer to my question is that signing Kiwior solves two requirements needed in his squad. He will be used as a deputy to cover Gabriel Magalhaes at the back and provide competition for William Saliba but also with his experience at Spezia, he could step in for midfielder Thomas Partey when needed.

Arteta said: “He is a young versatile defender who has shown huge potential and qualities with Spezia in Serie ‘A’ and also at the international level with Poland. Jakob is a player who will bring extra strength and quality to our defensive unit.”