This archive report was first published on 9 August 2019.
On the final day of the Premier League transfer window, Arsenal made two significant signings to bolster their defence: Scotland international Kieran Tierney and Brazilian centre-back David Luiz.
Tierney's £25 million move from Celtic was agreed on Wednesday night, after being a target for the Gunners all summer. The Scotland international described the decision to leave Celtic as 'the hardest decision in my whole life', citing the need to speak with his family and close friends before making the move.
"It was the hardest decision in my whole life that I've had to make. I had to speak to my family and my close friends and my agent as well because it's a hard decision to leave a club that you love so much," said Tierney.
"I feel Arsenal is a massive club and it's a great opportunity for me as well. I'm delighted to be here," he added.
Luiz's £8 million move from Chelsea is expected to fill the void left by former captain Laurent Koscielny's departure to Bordeaux earlier in the week. Arsenal boss Unai Emery welcomed Luiz's arrival, praising his experience and defensive prowess.
"David has huge experience and I look forward to working with him again. He is a well known player and adds to our defensive strength," said Emery.
These signings come after Arsenal conceded 51 goals in the Premier League last season, missing out on Champions League football for a third consecutive season. Despite this, the club has made an impressive window, with a club record £72 million spent on Nicolas Pepe from Lille, and the loan signing of Dani Ceballos from Real Madrid.
