Per Mertesacker has been impressed by new Arsenal signing Sead Kolasinac.

The home Arsenal fans got their first glimpse of Kolasinac in Saturday’s 5-2 win against Benfica and would have been very impressed by his performance.

The Bosnian international was a constant threat on the left flank, combining good movement, pace, power, a desire to never give up on any cause. It’s these attributes that have left club captain Per Mertesacker very impressed.

“Even going forward he looks comfortable, but he can play a deeper role in that back three because he’s got that tactical education from Germany. You can feel that in training. Going forward he plays the clear pass but is still dangerous,” Mertesacker said, as reported by the Evening Standard. 

“He never gives up, you know, [you could see it] on that play where Theo scored. He’s a guy that never gives up and a great addition to this team. Just muscle doesn’t work at all, you have to use it well. His physique is quite outstanding for a guy like him.”

It’s quite something watching him go on a rampage up the left flank, and there are a number of diminutive wingers that he’ll be looking forward to overpowering. The Bosnian could be a valuable member of the Arsenal squad due to his versatility and his sturdy frame. He should be able to hold his own in the physical and combative Premier League.

Arsenal signed Kolasinac on a free transfer from German Bundesliga side Schalke 04 earlier this summer. With all the money flying about for defenders, mostly from Manchester City, he could be one of the bargains of this transfer window. His arrival spelled the end for Kieran Gibbs and might see Nacho Monreal occupy a more centre role in a back three.