Arsenal Sign Midfielder Norgaard From Brentford
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Christian Norgaard said a childhood dream of appearing in the Champions League had come true after signing for Arsenal from Brentford on Thursday.<\/strong><\/p>\n The 31-year-old Danish midfielder has joined for a reported initial \u00a310 million ($14 million) fee plus a further \u00a32 million in add-ons, according to The Athletic.<\/p>\n Norgaard scored 13 times in 196 appearances for the Bees and was crucial to establishing Brentford as a Premier League club over the past four seasons.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can get almost emotional because maybe it was a dream that I\u2019ve given a little bit up on coming towards the later stage in my career,\u201d said Norgaard.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve just turned 31 and had signed a new deal with Brentford. Of course, there\u2019s always a little chance that a miracle could happen with Brentford, but it was probably unrealistic to play Champions League with them.<\/p>\n \u201cNow, I get to hear the anthem and be a part of a Champions League campaign. It\u2019s a childhood dream and something I didn\u2019t think would be possible.\u201d<\/p>\n Norgaard is Arsenal\u2019s third signing of the transfer window after Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi and goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and boosts their midfield options after the departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho.<\/p>\n \u201cHe is an international player with a wealth of experience of the Premier League. He has proven leadership skills and a strong character which will be invaluable to our squad,\u201d said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.<\/p>\n \u201cHe is a strong midfielder with excellent tactical awareness and versatility. He also has physical presence and intelligence which will give us added depth and balance.\u201d<\/p>\n Arsenal are also reportedly closing in on the signing of Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon for a deal worth around \u00a370 millon.<\/p>\n