Everton complete £7m signing of Arsenal midfielder Christian Norgaard
Danish midfielder Christian Norgaard has left Arsenal to join Everton in a deal worth £7m after just one season in north London.
The 32-year-old has signed a two-year contract at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
He becomes the third summer arrival for David Moyes’ side, following the acquisitions of Hayden Hackney and Tyrique George.
Norgaard made 20 appearances across all competitions during his maiden campaign at the Emirates Stadium, starting just seven Premier League matches.
Arteta praises departing ‘glue player’
Despite playing a bit-part role last term, Mikel Arteta hailed the impact of the former Brentford stalwart during a historic campaign.
The Gunners recently secured their first top-flight title in 22 years and reached the Champions League final for only the second time in their history.
Speaking after a 3-1 pre-season friendly defeat by Real Betis in Dublin, the Arsenal manager paid glowing tribute to the departing midfielder.
“He played a tremendous role for us,” Arteta said.
“When I brought him here, I said that he could be our glue player – an incredible capacity to bring people together, to keep the standards high.”
“When he played, he had some really good moments as well, but I understand that to fulfil that role for a long period is not easy.”
“He had a massive opportunity with a manager and a club that I know really well and we wish him all the best and thank him.”
Gunners reshape squad for title defence
Norgaard’s departure clears further space in the midfield ahead of the imminent arrival of Bruno Guimaraes.
A £75m deal has been agreed with Newcastle United for the Brazilian, who is expected to sign a four-year contract after passing a medical on Wednesday.
The reigning champions have been actively trimming their squad during the summer transfer window.
Belgian winger Leandro Trossard joined Turkish giants Besiktas last month for £15.3m.
Defender Jakub Kiwior completed a permanent transfer to Porto, while goalkeeper Karl Hein was sold to Werder Bremen.
Further exits could follow before the September 1 deadline.
Gabriel Jesus, Ethan Nwaneri and Reiss Nelson are among those facing uncertain futures in the capital.