Takehiro Tomiyasu will be available to make his debut for Arsenal against Norwich this weekend after his work permit application was approved, football.london understands.
The Japan international became the Gunners' sixth signing of the summer when his £19m move from Serie A side Bologna was officially confirmed on transfer deadline day.
Tomiyasu took part in his first training session at London Colney on Thursday afternoon after arriving from international duty with Japan.
However, his involvement in the Premier League match against the Canaries on Saturday was dependent on the outcome of a work permit application - which has now been approved.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta sounded rather optimistic about the process.
"We need a work permit first," the Spaniard confirmed. "The club is working hard to try and achieve that in the next couple of hours."
Explaining the decision to sign Tomiyasu, Arteta highlighted the Japan international's versatility and ability to solve the right-back problem as a major reason.
"Tomiyasu has the ability to play anywhere in a back four," Arteta added. "He gives us different qualities in that right-back position.
"He brings qualities that we didn't have in the squad."
Arteta's side also welcome back Thomas Partey, Gabriel, Ben White and Eddie Nketiah back into the squad for the game this weekend.
Emile Smith Rowe will be assessed ahead of the game due to illness after falling ill while on international duty with England Under-21s.
