Hamburg win race for Arsenal centre-back – Good luck Johan!

Johan Djourou is set to complete his move away from Arsenal in the coming days having passed a medical with German Bundesliga side Hamburger SV. The Swiss international also spent last year in Germany with rivals Hannover 96, who were also in for his signature this summer, however Hamburg have beaten them to the 26 year old.

It has been reported in the last few days that Arsenal had agreed deals with both mentioned German clubs and it was up to Djourou to choose the offer he wanted, with Arsenal no longer willing to step in his way. And the final result is that he agreed a 1 year loan deal with Hamburg for the 2013/14 Bundesliga, with the option to buy at the end of the season for a speculated £3 million.

Djourou has been in and out of the Arsenal set up for a number of years, originally joining the club in Arsenal’s invincible season of 2004. He made his debut the same year age 16 but despite his 10 years service to the Gunner’s he never really became an important player in North London. Although not degrading him off his worth, it’s very noticeable that he was in fact arguably our best defender in 2009 but in recent seasons he has seen himself fall back down the pecking order and ultimately regain a place on the Arsenal bench.

I always liked Djourou and thought he was always a very admirable professional as he never moaned about his role at the club. He was willing to help the club in any way he could and be patient for his opportunities. Often taking advantage of his opportunities in the past, the same results could not be seen in recent years, showing that he probably is nothing more than a 4th choice centre back for Arsenal, but I must say what a wonderful 4th choice option he is. I’m not sure if I’m disappointed with Djourou’s departure or not, but I suppose in the long run its best for both the player and the club, as long as he doesn’t become one of these players that goes out on loan until their contract expires.

Djourou has been officially unveiled by the German outfit on the clubs official website, however Arsenal are delaying the confirmation on their website Arsenal.com, however the reason is unknown why. Perhaps the same reason applies to why no incoming players have been announced on Arsenal.com or is that just wishful thinking?