ARSENAL confirmed the signing of Petr Cech on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee from London rivals Chelsea yesterday.

After 11 seasons and nearly 500 appearances for the Blues the 33-year-old lost his place in the side to the talented Thibaut Courtois last season and has been expected to seek a move to regain first-team football.

The talented keeper is just two clean sheets away from David James’s all time record and has won nearly every honour available during his time at Stamford Bridge.

The Czech said: “I’m really excited about joining Arsenal Football Club and can’t wait to join up for pre-season.”

Arsenal players took to Twitter to welcome the new arrival “Scored my first ever arsenal goal against him — delighted to welcome @PetrCech to @Arsenal !!! #WelcomeCech,” wrote Theo Walcott.

Gunners midfielder Aaron Ramsey hailed Arsene Wenger’s latest recruit as one of the best goalkeepers the Premier League has had, tweeting: “Wow what a signing! One of the best @premierleague keepers ever! Welcome @PetrCech.”

Arsenal legend Ian Wright echoed the sentiments of many fans when he told BreatheSport: “I am absolutely delighted for Arsenal and, as a fan, I couldn’t be happier. We finally have a world class stopper. Thank you Jose!”