Lucas Perez says he was first made aware of Arsenal's interest at the start of the summer transfer window despite not joining his new side until a day before the window closes, reports the London Evening Standard.
In his first interview as a new Arsenal player the 27-year-old intimated that he was aware that his new side had been evaluating other options.
He said: "I was really happy and flattered when I heard about Arsenal's interest. I was very hopeful to get the chance to come here.
"There was some contact when the transfer window opened. As always in football, clubs have to evaluate what they need, but they showed interest when they got in contact.
"Things happened more quickly towards the end of the window so it could be made official."
"I played as a striker for most of my career but I can adapt to any of the four positions across the front line," he added. "I prefer playing as a striker but I have no problem playing anywhere up front.
"I think I'm a pacy player. I like to link up and combine with my team-mates, playing one-twos to work a shot. I don't want to put myself in a box, I hope that the Arsenal fans can see for themselves and enjoy watching me."