Mathieu Flamini to Crystal Palace: Former Arsenal midfielder joins Eagles on free transfer

Mathieu Flamini, the former Arsenal midfielder, has joined Crystal Palace on a free transfer.

The 32-year-old has signed a one-year contract at Selhurst Park following the club’s failure to loan his former team-mate Jack Wilshere on transfer deadline day.

Flamini was released by Arsenal at the end of last season and, as a free agent, is able to join Palace outside of the transfer window.

The France international made a total of 246 appearances for Arsenal over two separate spells in north London, with a five-year stint at Milan in between.

Having missed out on Wilshere, who opted to join Bournemouth for the rest of the season, Palace manager Alan Pardew believed he needed more options in midfield.

"I thought it was important to get another midfield player," he said.

“His playing ability will help us but also his leadership qualities and his ability of how to win games in a passing style. I am delighted that we have secured a player of his stature.”

Flamini told the club’s official website: "Crystal Palace is a very ambitious club with great players and I am looking forward to being part of that squad.

"It is a very interesting challenge for me and I am very excited to be here."

Flamini, who will wear the number four shirt at Palace, could make his debut for the club when they travel to face Middlesbrough on Saturday.