CITY can confirm Italian foward Arturo Lupoli has joined the Canaries from Fiorentina on a season-long loan deal.

The deal represents a return to England for the 21-year-old after spells with Arsenal and Derby County. An Italian Under-21 international, Lupoli scored on his debut at that level in a 2-0 win over Luxembourg in December 2006 and the 5ft 8in forward has represented his country in every age group since he was 16.  Lupoli has been allocated squad number 18 at Norwich.

Commenting on the deal, Club Chairman Roger Munby commented: "This is an exciting signing which reflects the ambition of Glenn Roeder and Norwich City Football Club as we approach the start of the new season."

Lupoli told First News: "I am very happy to be here and hope to contribute for a great season for Norwich City and to be successful. I spoke to the Manager and I really feel that he wants me here. I know a lot about Norwich City - I was with Arsenal when they and my teammate David Bentley were in the Premier League and have followed their progress."

The left-footed frontman began his career with Parma's youth side and was later snapped up by Arsenal in July 2004 where he made nine appearances - including three as a substitute. He netted three times for the London club, all in the League Cup, including a brace against Everton in the 3-1 fourth round win at Highbury in November 2004.

The following season he scored his third Gunners goal and their third of the match against Reading, again in the fourth round at Highbury in a 3-0 win. He capped off the season by winning the Carling Cup New Talent Award for the 2005-06 season.

During the 2006-07 campaign, Lupoli went out on loan to Derby County, making his debut at Pride Park in August 2006 against Norwich City in a 0-0 draw.

In November of the same year he scored an injury-time winner at Pride Park against Ipswich Town, resulting in a 2-1 victory for The Rams. Two months later he scored his first competitive hat-trick in the FA Cup third round 3-1 home victory over Wrexham. Whilst at Derby, Arturo made a total of 38 appearances - 20 starts and 18 sub appearances, netting 11 goals.

Returning to Italy, Lupoli signed for Fiorentina in July 2007 in a five-year deal. He was subsequently sent out on loan to Serie B side Treviso for the 2007-08 campaign.