Arsenal's new left-back Andre Santos admits he's close to Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos, now playing with Anzhi.

Roberto Carlos has 125 international caps for Brazil and Arsenal's recent signing admits there could be no better man to help him along the way.

"He's been a very important person in my career," Santos the Official Arsenal Matchday Programme. "It was a short period with him but a brilliant learning experience.

"I am a fan of his, he has always been one of my favourite players and he taught me a lot.

"It was very important to share a livelihood with him and be by his side - he shared a lot of experiences from his career and of playing in World Cups for example.

"Today he is a great friend of mine and is doing well for his club in Russia."