Arsenal have signed French midfielder Vasiriki Abou Diaby from Auxerre for an undisclosed fee, the Premiership side announced on Friday. "French Under-19 international Abou Diaby has today signed for Arsenal from Auxerre on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee," Arsenal said in a statement carried by the club's official website. According to reports in the English press, Diaby has put pen-to-paper on a four-year deal for a fee of 2 million pounds ($3.5 million). Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger expressed his delight at acuqiring the services of the 19-year-old midfielder. "We're delighted to welcome Abou to the Club. He is a strong midfielder and has shown huge potential during his time at Auxerre. He will be a tremendous addition to our squad," Wenger said. Diaby said he is looking forward to link up with Arsenal, a team that has a glorious history. "I am so happy to have signed for Arsenal. The Club has great history and a squad which is full of high quality players," he said. "This is a very exciting time for me and I'm looking forward to a successful career here," he added. Diaby came through the youth ranks of French side Auxerre; he has played just three matches this season. On the international level, he led his nation to win the under-19 European Championship in 2005 after beating England in the final 3-1 in Norhtern Ireland capital Belfast.
