Balkestein joined Ipswich from Heerenveen in June 2008

Brentford have completed the signings of Ipswich defender Pim Balkestein and Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny on one-month loan deals.

Dutchman Balkestein, 22, has made seven appearances for the Championship club this season.

Poland international Szczesny, 19, joined the Gunners two years ago and made his debut in the Carling Cup win over West Brom in September.

Both players will go into the squad for Saturday's visit of Walsall.

Brentford boss Andy Scott told the club website: "We are very fortunate to have been able to take Pim on loan.

606: DEBATE Perhaps now with the new centre-half and a Polish international goalkeeper we can stop those goals going in our net BSaugertiesNewYork

"He has played against us in the past two seasons in pre-season friendlies and likes the way we play. I believe he will be a very good signing."

On Szczesny, who has won six Poland Under-21 caps and made his full debut against Canada on Wednesday, Scott said: "This is another good signing for the club.

"He brings with him more of the quality that we are looking to introduce into the squad.

"It also shows our capability to bring in good players. We are looking forward to working with him and enjoying a fruitful relationship."

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