Former Auxerre striker Yaya Sanogo admits Arsene Wenger convinced him to make the move to Arsenal.

Sanogo is signing for Arsenal on a Bosman.

"Arsene Wenger came to see me in Paris and was very frank. He told me that if I was good enough, I would have my chance. It's been a year and a half that I have not played because of injury.

"Plenty of clubs were interested. On balance, it was Lille and Arsenal. Initially, I wanted to go to Lille, but the approach of Mr Wenger made the difference.

"Many say that my entourage chose for me. This is false. People like to talk ... But it's me playing, scoring and working hard. So I made up my mind.

"I longed to go to a big club. If I had not been injured at 18, I might already be gone. I always wanted to play in England. And so, at 20 years of age, I do not know if this train will come again.

"Some, it is true, have been burned going there. But many have succeeded. I lost a lot of time and I hope to catch up in coming the years."