Gabriel Jesus says the opportunity to link up with Mikel Arteta once again was the decisive factor in his move to Arsenal.
The Brazil international has completed a £45million move from Manchester City, signing a long-term contract in north London where he will wear the no9 shirt.
Tottenham were also in the race to sign the 25-year-old who was also offered to Chelsea.
But having worked under Arteta during the Spaniard’s time working as Pep Guardiola’s assistant in Manchester, Jesus was keen on a reunion in north London.
‘We spoke a couple of times about the club, the players, the project and the future,’ Jesus told Arsenal’s official website.
‘I believe 100 per cent in Mikel. I had a very good time with him before, he’s a very good guy and a very good coach as well.
‘He helped me a lot [at Manchester City]. We would always stick together after the training sessions and do some finishing or something.
‘He’s a very intelligent guy and was an amazing player, so if he knows something he can teach me or the young players.’
He continued: ‘I’m so happy to sign for this big club. Since day one when I knew I could come to play for Arsenal, I was happy.
‘I know the staff, I know some players, the Brazilian ones. I know there are a lot of top players. They are young and I’m still young as well, so I am so happy to be here to help. I come to help, to learn as well and to try to do my best.’
Jesus becomes the fourth new arrival at Arsenal this summer alongside goalkeeper Matt Turner, Brazilian youngster Marquinhos and Portuguese midfielder Fabio Vieira.
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