Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admits he wanted to sign Calum Chambers in January after their 2-2 draw with Southampton.
Chambers moved to the Emirates Stadium for £12million in the summer and has been a virtual ever-present for the Gunners, playing at right back and deputising at centre half.
"I was impressed by his understanding of the game and his interception qualities," said Wenger of the 19-year-old defender who played 90 minutes against his former club in Arsenal's 1-0 win against Southampton on Wednesday night.
"The first time I watched him was in our 2-2 draw against Southampton when we played them away last season.
"I liked the fact that he was early on the ball. His reading of the game and his transition to quickly go forward also stood out, and his touch was good as well.
"I checked his birth date after the game and was very interested."
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