Arsenal signing Rob Holding: I'm pinching myself after Gunners transfer

Holding in action for Arsenal against Chivas
Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Nick Callow1 August 2016

Rob Holding says he still can't quite believe he has signed for Arsenal after scoring his first goal for Arsene Wenger's side.

The defender would have spent next season in League One with Bolton after the Trotters were relegated from the Championship, but Holding could now be in line to start for Arsenal on the opening day of the 2016/17 campaign against Liverpool.

Speaking about his rapid rise after Arsenal's victory, Holding said: “I’m settling in quickly but I’ve only been here a week and a half and am pinching myself.

“The difference is the sheer size of Arsenal and I’ve noticed it on this trip to the States. People are shouting for the players wherever we go.

“This is what I wanted. I am looking forward to getting the chance to play against big names in front of massive crowds.”

Wenger said of Holding's displays on tour: "I am impressed by his performances and by his capacity to adapt very quickly to a higher level.

"He shows intelligence, composure, character and it’s impressive. You do not see that often."

Regarding a potential start for Holding against Liverpool, Wenger added: "At the moment we have Per Mertesacker out and we have Laurent Koscielny still on holiday, plus Gabriel.

"One of them will play at the start of the season or at least be in the squad. At the moment I have a look at everybody and after I will make my final decision.

Arsenal away and third kit launch in LA

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"But... it’s true that Holding adapted very quickly. All the three have top quality and all the three miss a little bit of experience. I’ll have to make a decision in two weeks."

Meanwhile, the Gunners boss remains unmoved by transfer speculation linking Valencia centre-back Shkodran Mustafi and Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette to Arsenal.

Standard Sport also understands that West Ham have had a loan bid for Kieran Gibbs rejected by Arsenal as they search for an experienced left-back to replace the injured Aaron Cresswell.

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