Arsenal drop Cedric Soares shirt number hint after loan deal confirmed

The defender has joined Arsenal on a loan deal from Southampton until the end of the season, but his shirt number has not officially been confirmed yet

Arsenal have completed the loan signing of Southampton defender Cedric Soares, but are yet to confirm his shirt number.

The Portugal international has moved to the Emirates until the end of the season, with the Gunners to cover the defender's wages for the remainder of his time on the south coast, whilst also paying a loan fee and covering agent fees.

Arsenal are yet to reveal Cedric's new shirt number at the Emirates, but may have already dropped a big hint on his choice.

On the Arsenal Direct online store, fans can now buy Cedric's shirt with the number 17 printed on the back.

The number was previously worn by Alex Iwobi, who joined Everton in the summer, and before that; Alexis Sanchez.

Speaking to the official club website, Edu revealed why the Gunners moved to make Cedric their second January signing.

“Cedric is a defender with good experience of the Premier League, and of course at international level," he said.

"He is another strong addition to our defensive unit who will provide our squad with quality. I know he is a player who plays with absolute full commitment and energy.

"We are all looking forward to going into the last stages of the season with Cedric as part of the club.”