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Arsenal's Krystian Bielik joins Charlton on season-long loan

On loan | Bielik: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
On loan | Bielik: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsenal youngster Krystian Bielik has joined Charlton on loan until the end of the season.

The Polish centre-back, who can also play in midfield, has previously spent time at Birmingham and Walsall on loan, though the latter spell was disrupted by a shoulder injury.

Bielik, a long-term target for the Addicks, will add much-needed defensive cover to Lee Bowyer’s squad. Charlton have been unable to name a full compliment of substitutes in either of their first two League One matches and are particularly short of numbers at centre-back since the departure of Ezri Konsa to Brentford for £3million.

Bowyer hopes Bielik can offer the same quality that youth product Konsa did at The Valley last season: “He is someone that can protect the back four. He’s good on the ball, strong and he’s someone that can fill in at centre-half as well. He’s a bit like Ez [Ezri Konsa], he can comfortably play in both positions. He’s obviously good on the ball, you don’t play for Arsenal unless you can play, so I know he’s going to be another great addition to the squad.

“I couldn’t tell you how many phone calls [Head of Recruitment] Steve Gallen made to Arsenal to try and get this one over the line. It’s been going on for a while now, so we’re delighted to get him here. Obviously, there were other clubs involved trying to get him, like all the others that we’re trying to bring in so he’s no exception but that’s what happens when you are trying to bring in good players.”

Bielik said: “I want to show everyone that I can play football. It’s a good opportunity for me to play here because I know people are going to watch me and I’m under pressure. That’s what I like, I want to do my best.”

Charlton has proven to be an effective proving ground for Arsenal youngsters, with Francis Coquelin and Stephy Mavididi both having enjoyed plenty of game time at The Valley. Bielik, just the third signing of a summer of austerity since owner Roland Duchatelet's sale has stalled, is set to be joined by further loan reinforcements before the window closes on August 31.