Former Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin is delighted with his move to Valencia.

Coquelin spoke to the local media today at his signing ceremony.

"I am at an age that I need a long-term project. By offering me a definitive transfer I liked that option," Coquelin, who will wear the No17 shirt, said.

"I know Gabriel Paulista, from Arsenal, and I also spoke with (Shkodran) Mustafi, who was here, and with other Spaniards like (Hector) Bellerín and (Nacho) Monreal ... but the one I talked to most was (Santi) Cazorla.

"He did not play in Valencia but he was with Marcelino and the feedback I've had has been very good.

"He told me that it is an excellent club and that I would not regret it. That the coach is very good and a great person. I, to what Cazorla tells me, I pay a lot of attention and that was a plus to come to Valencia. I respect Cazorla a lot."

He added: "There was an interest this summer but in my head I wanted to continue at Arsenal and succeed there. It could not be. And now Valencia has maintained interest. And I almost regret not having come before."