Alexandre Lacazette reveals how Francis Coquelin persuaded him to join Arsenal
The clubs most expensive signing in history explains the crucial role that fellow Gunner played in the transfer
ALEXANDRE LACAZETTE has revealed the influential role that French teammate Francis Coquelin played in his record-breaking move to the Emirates.
The Gunners announced the signing of the foward from Lyon on Tuesday for £52m on a five-year deal.
"He said I will not regret my decision to move here," said the new signing following talks with the Arsenal midfielder.
The Gunners were aided in their pursuit for the Lyon forward by Coquelin, who has known the midfielder since their time in the French youth side.
"We've had a lot of contact over the last few years and even more over the last few weeks, of course, since it became increasingly likely that I would come to Arsenal," he told Arsenal Player.
"He has said only good things about Arsenal, which is not surprising because he wanted me to join the club. Even without that I still really wanted to come here.
"He said I would not regret my decision to move here because of the people I'd be working with and, of course, the fans," he added.
The teammates played together in France's winning side in the 2010 Under-19 Euros.
Lacazette bagged the winner in the tournament to clench the title, and the two players have kept in touch ever since.
The 26-year-old seemed destined for a move to Atletico Madrid earlier this summer, but the move fell through due to a transfer ban, allowing Arsenal to latch onto the in-demand forward.
Arsene Wenger managed to seal the deal for a club-record fee of £52million after passing his medical on Tuesday.
With the exit of Olivier Giroud looming at the Emirates, the boss will be hoping his French compatriot will prove an apt replacement.
Alexandre Lacazette netted 37 goals in 45 games in all competitions last season - including 28 in Ligue 1.
The striker will make his home debut for Arsenal later this month at the Emirates.