Arsenal sign Rob Holding from Bolton on long-term contract in deal worth £2.5million


Arsenal have made their third summer signing -  promising young defender Rob Holding for £2m from Bolton
Arsenal have made their third summer signing -  promising young defender Rob Holding for £2m from Bolton

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of England Under-21 defender Rob Holding from League One side Bolton, for a reported fee of £2.5million.


The 20-year-old came through the ranks at Bolton before breaking into the first team 12 months ago and went on to immediately establish himself in the side.

Wanderers finished bottom of the Championship as they dropped down to the third tier but that did not stop Holding picking up the club's player of the season award.

Speaking to Arsenal's official website - Holding revealed that the move is 'something you dream of as a kid'

Arsenal announced the signing on Friday, with length of Holding's contract undisclosed, to make the versatile defender their third summer acquisition.

The 20-year-old follows Granit Xhaka and Takuma Asano in moving to the Emirates Stadium but it remains to be seen if he will be involved with the first team straight away.

He was a late replacement call-up for England's U21 squad which won the Toulon Tournament in May, making two appearances during the competition.



Bolton have reluctantly sold one of their biggest talents, but took time to wish him well for the future.

'Everyone at BWFC would like to thank @RobHolding95 for his efforts during his time with the club, and wish him well in his future career,' Bolton posted on their official Twitter account.

Arsenal's own statement on Holding's signing included 'Rob is a versatile player, comfortable at both centre back and full back, and we look forward to him joining up with the squad.'

Interestingly, the announcement closed with confirmation that the Gunners 'remain in the market' for new players, with further attacking options the most likely target before the close of the window.


Holding will join the squad imminently to begin his preparations for next seasonHolding is already familiar with Arsenal centre back Calum Chambers after partnering with him for England's U21 side
The 20-year-old poses proudly in his new Arsenal colours 


Arsenal described the 20-year-old as 'a versatile player, comfortable playing at both centre back and full back'
The 20-year-old poses proudly in his new Arsenal colours following confirmation of the deal from both clubs


The Arsenal's can't wait to get started

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