What Arsenal star Noni Madueke told Ezri Konsa in private talks to help clinch transfer
Noni Madueke pushed Ezri Konsa to join Arsenal
Noni Madueke has revealed he played a backstage role in Arsenal's £55million signing of England team-mate Ezri Konsa.
The imposing defender, who can also operate at right-back, is in line to make his debut this evening away to former club Aston Villa as the Gunners look to make it two wins from two.
Madueke has now opened up on Konsa's arrival and what he said to his compatriot to help facilitate the move, telling Arsenal's website: "You know that you're fighting for places every week, on a game-to-game basis. You know that you've got an amazing squad that has the ability to fight on all front.
"We've got a squad full of internationals, top players, and that's exactly what we need. It's a great club, a great environment and I was saying [to Ezri Konsa] before he signed, it's the best place that he could've chosen."
FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE! Latest Gunners news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page
Konsa was never going to need persuading. He has also formed a close friendship and bond with Bukayo Saka and already knows the likes of Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze and Ben White from the England set-up, too.
Madueke feels his arrival is a great piece of transfer business by the club, explaining: "He's a great friend of mine first and foremost, we've played with each other for England now for a couple of years.
"I'm delighted that he's here, he's a great player and I know he's going to be a great addition, not only to the team but around the building. I can't wait to see what we're going to achieve together."
Ezri Konsa could make his debut for Arsenal against Aston Villa(Image: David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Mikel Arteta has already made it clear he would have no qualms thrusting Konsa straight into action against his former employers due to his mentality and quality.
Speaking to football.london earlier this month, Saka shared his delight that his "brother" had joined the club following a memorable summer together at the World Cup.
He explained after scoring against Coventry City: "I don't know how to describe it, man [their bond]. Ever since I met him at England, we've just got on.
"Yeah, I'm so happy to have him here. Not only because he's a brother to me, but I know the level of player he is and I'm excited for him to show it at this level."
Official premium experiences at the Emirates are available now for the 26/27 Premier League season. Make it easier than ever to turn a regular fixture into something genuinely unforgettable.
Choose Football London as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.