21 year old Halls had been with Arsenal since 1998, turning pro 2 years later. He was in the 2000 FA Youth Cup winning team and played for England at U18 and U19 levels. But just as he looke dlike he might get a break into the first team (a few appearances on the bench) he got a knee injury that made him miss virtually all of the 2001-2002 season. Last season he spent the whole year on loan at Beveren. Originally a centre-back, he's been playing right-back too, and is a capable midfielder.

The ("undisclosed") fee is reported to be £50,000 rising to £120,000 depending on appearances.

See this interview for quotes. He's right, it's time to move on cos it looks like he's missed his chance at Arsenal. We wish him well for the rest of his career.