Fulham signs Arsenal defender

The 25-year-old has signed a three-year contract and will join Fulham on a free transfer after his deal with Arsenal expired.

He told the club’s official website: “I’m delighted to have finalised my transfer to Fulham earlier today and happy that I am joining the club during the most successful period in its history.

“I will be looking forward to meeting up with my new team-mates and of course, Roy Hodgson, a manager I respect very much, shortly after the World Cup.

“I very much hope that I can contribute over the next few seasons and that the club goes on to achieve more success.”

Fulham manager Roy Hodgson added: “Philippe is a player that I have admired for a very long time since he captained Switzerland to the UEFA Under-17 Championship in 2002.

“He is a strong defender who has great aerial presence at both ends of the field and has a superb work ethic which is a vital component for any team’s success. I am very much looking forward to working with Philippe next season.”