Gabriel Magalhaes says he spoke to Nicolas Pepe before making his move to Arsenal and the winger helped make up his mind to join the club.
Arsenal won the race to sign the Brazilian defender back in the summer when they agreed a £27million fee with Lille, beating the likes of Napoli to his signature.
Gabriel has hit the ground running at the Emirates, only missing one of Arsenal’s Premier League matches so far and proving to be a dominant figure in Mikel Arteta’s backline.
The 22-year-old played alongside Arsenal’s record signing Pepe at Lille and the defender revealed he was in contact with his former team-mate before making the switch to north London.
‘I spoke with Pepe before I moved,’ Gabriel told Sky Sports. ‘I asked him how it was at the club and of course he had an influence on my decision.’
Gabriel says he is enjoying his new role and has settled in quickly at the Emirates.
‘Of course I’m very happy it’s the best moment in my career so far,’ he added.
‘Everyone has welcomed me really well, I feel at home here already, it’s a great feeling so far.’
Arteta’s side got to the Round of 32 stages of the competition last season as they were dramatically knocked out by Olympiacos on away goals.
