Chelsea's new wonderkid Tomas Kalas has revealed he rejected a move to Arsenal in favour of Stamford Bridge.
Kalas, who hails from the Czech Republic, is one of the most promising young defenders in the world.
Given Arsene Wenger's love for signing starlets and Arsenal's paucity of defenders, it is no surprise that the Gunners were interested in the 17-year-old.
However, Kalas himself revealed that he had been most impressed by the facilities at Chelsea after making a tour of the Blues and Gunners as well as German sides Bayer Leverkusen and Hoffenheim.
In comments reported by iDnes.cz, he said: "There were rumours flying around already during the spring, but at that time there were more clubs around me.
"It became more specific only after the U-17 European Championship in Liechtenstein in May. Chelsea scouts were present there.
"Then I, my dad and Olomouc (Kalas' former club) were proposed a specific offer. But Mr [Frank, Chelsea's sporting director] Arnesen told me I had been on the list already before the Euro and they had been following me for two years."
Kalas penned a deal that takes him to London from Czech club Sigma Olomouc until 2016.
Commenting on interest in him from elsewhere, Kalas revealed: "Bayer Leverkusen and Hoffenheim from the Bundesliga and apart from Chelsea also Arsenal.
"I have been to both German clubs and also Arsenal, but the best impression was left on me by Chelsea.
"People say that Arsenal are famous for their academy, but from what I could see during my days at Chelsea, that really impressed me.
"Even my dad thought of Chelsea as the best option. Moreover, I have been a Chelsea fan since I was a little kid.
"I am convinced I have made the right decision by joining Chelsea. After all, by this I am making my dream come true."
Kalas goes to a club populated by world-class defenders who have a wealth of experience. Carlo Ancelotti will be hoping the likes of John Terry, Alex and Ricardo Carvalho take the youngster under their wing.
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