New Arsenal signing Marouane Chamakh admits he grew up a Gooner.

The Morocco striker joined the Gunners on Friday in a Bosman deal from Bordeaux.

"They are the team of my youth," he said. "It was a choice of the heart. I like the Premier League and Arsenal, without any hesitation, is my preferred club.

"Anything that goes with Arsenal is a dream come true. My goal was to join Arsenal out of all the English clubs because it is a club that makes dreams.

"I have been a fan since I was a child."

Chamakh, 26, can't wait to improve his game under manager Arsene Wenger.

"The fact that he is interested in me is a great satisfaction. When a club like Arsenal and Arsene Wenger is interested it makes me very happy and gives me motivation to improve.

"I can't wait to get advice from the likes of Samir Nasri, Diaby, Sagna, Song. If my English was better then I would probably ask English players as well.

"I can't wait to see the stadium. In France people take a trip to London just to see it."