Finally Arsenal have confirmed the worst kept secret in transfer history, with the France international penning a long-term contract at the Emirates.

A deal had reportedly been struck towards the end of June after the player's official website announced the 21-year-old had secured his transfer to North London.

However, the statement proved to be premature, and was subsequently removed, sparking confusion over the progress of the switch.

But now the former Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year has sealed his protracted move to Arsenal for a reported fee in the region of £12million.

Nasri told the club's official website: "I'm very happy to become an Arsenal player, it means such a lot to me. This is a very important step in my life as a football player because Arsenal is a massive club.

"I really hope everything will go well for me here. I will be my best for Arsenal and its fans and I am honoured to be part of such a great football club."

Manager Arsene Wenger added: "We are delighted to be signing Samir Nasri. He is young, quick and technically an outstanding player.

"He has shown great potential with his performances for Marseille and the French national team over the past two seasons and he will add great quality to our squad."