While all the attention, understandably, was on the signing of Mesut Ozil from Real Madrid, Arsenal also completed the signing of goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano from Palermo.

The Italian international switches from Italy to the English Premier League on a season-long loan with Arsenal having the option of making the transfer permanent at the end of the season.

Wenger has been looking to bring in an experienced goalkeeper to give Wojciech Szczesny some competition and while Viviano is not expected to go straight into the starting lineup, he will provide the Pole some much-needed back up.

"Italy international goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano has joined Arsenal from Serie B side Palermo on a season-long loan," the club said in a statement on their official website.

"The deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.

"Everyone at Arsenal wishes Emiliano every success at the club."

Arsenal were heavily linked with a move for Viviano last summer with the signing breaking down in the last minute.

Wenger failed in a bid to land Vicente Guaita from Valencia and turned his attentions to Viviano a couple of days before the closure of the transfer window.

"Viviano is a player that we have rated for some time and we are very pleased to have signed him on loan," Wenger said.

"He's experienced and has proved himself at a high level, and provides us with excellent cover to our existing goalkeepers."

Szczesny has started the season well, but will now know he cannot afford too many mistakes this season, with Viviano breathing down the Polish international's neck for a regular place in the starting XI.