Matteo Guendouzi has been hailed as a key influence in William Saliba's decision to join Arsenal by the player himself.
Last summer, the French midfielder left Ligue 2 side Lorient to join the Gunners and enjoyed a breakout season under Unai Emery.
Despite being signed a talent for the future he made an immediate impact as a first-team player.
Saliba had been subject to interest from Tottenham Hotspur but ultimately chose to move to the Emirates Stadium, although he will remain at Saint-Etienne until next season.
The 18-year-old is regarded as one of the biggest talents in French football and could be an important figure in defence for more than a decade if he proves to be a success at Arsenal.
In his first interview with the club's official website after his deal to join the Gunners was announced, the teenager credited Guendouzi for talking him round.
"I spoke to Matteo," he said. "I even bumped into him at a funfair in Paris, and that's where I told him that Arsenal wanted to sign me!
"He gently advised me to come here and explained what it was like."
Guendouzi is already a popular figure among some supporters of the club.
His role in winning over a new signing will only enhance his reputation.
