Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has claimed that Jose Mourinho's "love" for Cesc Fabregas was crucial in convincing the former Gunner to sign for Chelsea.

The 27-year-old signed for the Stamford Bridge outfit after leaving Barcelona in the summer, with the ex-Arsenal defender claiming that the Blues manager went out of his way to convince the Spanish midfielder to do so.

Keown told BBC Sport: "Jose Mourinho demonstrated his love for Fabregas and I think went out to see him personally to convince him to sign.

"That was something Sir Alex Ferguson was very good at as well to get the players he wanted in through the door."

Chelsea take on Arsenal this afternoon in the Premier League.