Arsenal Defender Johan Djourou Agrees to Join Hannover 96 on Loan

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger promised changes were coming during the January transfer window, and now it seems he's making good on that proclamation.

Johan Djourou, who has struggled throughout the season to find his form, is on his way out at the Emirates, as the defender and Hannover 96 have come to a loan agreement, per Arsenal's official website: "Johan Djourou will join side Hannover 96 on loan for the remainder of the 2012/13 season, subject to the completion of regulatory processes."

It seems like Djourou's fate has been decided for awhile now. Wenger made it pretty clear earlier this week that Djourou and fellow defender Sebastien Squillaci would be on their way out if they could find a new club (h/t The Independent). 

Though he's been with Arsenal's senior club since 2004 and been a valuable member of the club, Djourou had struggled mightily the past few seasons. Injuries plagued the 25-year-old, and he struggled to find his form as a result. 

That became readily apparent this season, as he completely fell out of Wenger's playing rotation. He's yet to make an appearance in any of Arsenal's Premier League matches, with his preferred position of central defender being locked up.

Luckily for Djourou, he should have an opportunity to play for Hannover 96. The German club is deep in the Bundesliga standings and has been crippled by injuries on the defense all season. Djourou will have to find his form quickly, but he could be a great addition for manager Mirko Slomka.

With a loan agreement in place, it seems like Hannover 96 has plenty of faith in Djourou going forward.

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