Arsenal's brand new record signing Alexandre Lacazette has revealed the reason behind his decision to sign for the north London club - and it involves a club legend.

The France international has joined the Gunners on a five-year contract from Lyon for an eye-watering £52million, beating the previous transfer record set by Mesut Ozil's £42.5m deal in 2013.

Speaking for the first time as an Arsenal player, the 26-year-old explained exactly what fans can expect to see from him next season.

He also admitted that the Gunners' rich history played a huge part in his decision to sign for the Emirates outfit, as well as one Thierry Henry.

Alexandre Lacazette has signed for Arsenal on a five-year deal

"I am, of course, very delighted and proud too because Arsenal is a legendary club," Lacazette told Arsenal media.

"Throughout my childhood, thanks to Thierry Henry and other French players, I always dreamed of playing for this club so today that dream has been fulfilled.

"Arsenal's past - I like clubs with history.

The 26-year-old explained Arsenal's rich history attracted him to the club (
Image:
Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

"Also the fact that the manager has been here for a while shows that it is a stable club, which I like - In addition there are quite a few French players here, which makes it easier to settle in.

"In my opinion Arsenal is also the club that plays the best football in England so I really wanted to come here.

"When I play I like to use my pace and to link up with my team-mates - As a forward I like to score goals, of course, but that's not all I'm about.

Lacazette said Arsenal's stability under Arsene Wenger helped with his decision (
Image:
Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

"I love good flowing football where the whole team is engaged."

Arsenal expect Lacazette to join up on their pre-season trip to Australia and China and the France international has already set his sights on helping the club back into the Champions League.

The talented striker was signed from French giants Lyon (
Image:
Getty Images Europe)

The 26-year-old has landed a bumper £200,000-per-week deal that will make him the top earner at the Emirates.

A club statement said: "Alexandre Lacazette has agreed to join us on a long-term contract, for an undisclosed fee.

Lacazette is keen to follow in the footsteps of Thierry Henry (
Image:
Daily Mirror)

"He is expected to travel with the tour party to Sydney this weekend and is likely to make his home debut in the Emirates Cup on July 29 or July 30.

"The deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes."

Lacazette will become the Gunners' best-paid player (
Image:
AFP/Getty)

The Gunners swooped in for the France international after Atletico Madrid's transfer ban scuppered a move to La Liga.

Lacazette joins Sead Kolasinac as part of the Arsenal rebuild after missing out on a top four finish and Champions League football.

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