Petr Cech key to Arsenal’s title hopes – David Seaman

Arsenal’s capture of goalkeeper Petr Cech means the club is close to winning a first Premier League title in 12 years, says former Gunner David Seaman.

Cech, 33, became Arsene Wenger’s first summer signing on Monday, joining on a four-year deal worth £10m from London rivals Chelsea.

Three-time title-winning keeper Seaman says Cech’s arrival is a “massive boost” but further signings are needed.

“He’s part of the jigsaw that’s nearly finished,” Seaman told BBC Sport.

“It’s not all about Cech. We still need a good centre-half and a Patrick Viera or Yaya Toure-like midfielder.

“But before, we were having to sell players – like Cesc Fabregas and Gael Clichy. The club’s now got stability and the finances to pay wages and big transfer fees.

“By bringing quality players in like Cech, that will be what we need to win the Premier League.”

Cech, capped 91 times by the Czech Republic, won 13 trophies in 11 seasons with Chelsea – including four domestic league trophies.

He made only seven league appearances for the Blues last season after losing his place to Belgium international Thibaut Courtois.

But Seaman believes Cech will now displace Wojciech Szczesny and David Ospina to become the Gunners’ first-choice keeper.

“He won’t want to come to Arsenal to be a number two,” said the 75-cap ex-England keeper.

“He’s got trophies behind him and I would say he’s bang in the prime of his career. He’s got at least another five or six years ahead of him.”

FA Cup holders Arsenal have not won the Premier League since 2004 and finished 12 points behind champions Chelsea last season.

When asked if Cech would be missed at Stamford Bridge, Seaman added: “I’m sure he will be. He’s a character.

“He’s a confident speaker and when you see him out in public, he loves talking about goalkeeping.

“It’s a massive boost for Arsenal. It’s what they needed. He must have had a list as long as his arm of clubs to go to, so I’m so happy he chose Arsenal.”