Gabriel Magalhaes has revealed how Mikel Arteta played a key role in his decision to join Arsenal.
Arsenal finally confirmed the £27million signing of the defender – as the club unveiled him during a live clip on social media.
The Brazilian has signed a long-term deal and will wear the number six shirt as he becomes Arteta’s fourth major signing of the summer.
Lille allowed the Brazilian to choose his destination after a number of clubs met their transfer demands.
Manchester United, Napoli and Everton were all keen on the Brazilian centre-half.
But the Gunners won the race, thanks in large part to their manager.
“[Edu and I] had several chats about Arsenal and the new project, we had many good conversations,” Gabriel told Arsenal Digital.
“As the days went by I was getting very excited about it, then I had a call from the coach and that was very reassuring.
“Having the coach himself calling you to say he wants you in his squad motivates you a lot. That is the very reason I am here today.
“We did not talk about [details], he just told me he is aware of my quality, my capacity and how far I can go. He also said he will be very demanding with me.
“I know he is a great coach and I will make progress with his help.”
Gabriel emerged as one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe after a standout season with Lille, where he played 34 times for the club and starred in the Champions League.
He played a total of 52 games for Lille after beginning his career with Brazilian side Avai – who he joined at the age of 13. He left for the Ligue 1 side in 2017 – quickly adjusting to life in France by learning the language.
The arrival comes as a huge boost to Arteta, who has been hoping to strengthen his defensive options for the upcoming season, with his defenders coming under fire for a string of errors leading to goals.
William Saliba has also returned from a loan spell at Saint-Etienne to give the Spaniard a few options to choose from, while the resurgence of David Luiz in the middle of the back four means Magalhaes will have to fight for his place.
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