Takehiro Tomiyasu to feature straightaway for Arsenal?

Arsenal technical director Edu Gaspar has said that new signing Takehiro Tomiyasu will be a regular starter for the club.

The Japan international joined the Gunners from Bologna on deadline day. The defender will wear the number 18 shirt this term.

In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, Edu revealed that the club are looking at the long-term with their youthful signings.

Tomiyasu was the last of the six signings this summer, and Edu revealed that the 22-year-old is expected to play straightaway.

However, he added that the final decision on starting him will be made by manager Mikel Arteta, who has the club's backing.

Tomiyasu can play as a centre-back or right-back. He has been recruited as a replacement for Hector Bellerin, who left on loan.

He played regularly on the right side of the defence at Serie A club Bologna, and could assume a similar role for the Gunners.

He could make his debut against Norwich City in the Premier League next weekend.