New Chelsea signing Tomas Kalas has revealed he rejected Arsenal to make the £5 million switch to the Premier League champions.
Kalas, 17, has joined the Blues from Czech side Sigma Olomouc on a contract that runs until 2016. As one of the most highly rated young defenders in Europe, he had a pick of teams to move to.
Despite visiting the Gunners - as well as German sides Bayer Leverkusen and Hoffenheim - the childhood fan was determined to force through a move to Carlo Ancelotti's side.
"There were rumours flying around already during the spring, but at that time there were more clubs around me," Kalas told iDnes.cz.
"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 were proposed a specific offer. But Mr [Frank, 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 has only made one appearance in the Czech top flight so far and will stay at Sigma on loan next season. He further revealed he not only rejected Arsene Wenger's advances, but a pair of moves to the Bundesliga.
"Bayer Leverkusen and Hoffenheim from the Bundesliga and apart from Chelsea also Arsenal," Kalas added.
"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, 17, has joined the Blues from Czech side Sigma Olomouc on a contract that runs until 2016. As one of the most highly rated young defenders in Europe, he had a pick of teams to move to.
Despite visiting the Gunners - as well as German sides Bayer Leverkusen and Hoffenheim - the childhood fan was determined to force through a move to Carlo Ancelotti's side.
"There were rumours flying around already during the spring, but at that time there were more clubs around me," Kalas told iDnes.cz.
"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 were proposed a specific offer. But Mr [Frank, 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 has only made one appearance in the Czech top flight so far and will stay at Sigma on loan next season. He further revealed he not only rejected Arsene Wenger's advances, but a pair of moves to the Bundesliga.
"Bayer Leverkusen and Hoffenheim from the Bundesliga and apart from Chelsea also Arsenal," Kalas added.
"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."
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