Auxerre striker Yaya Sanogo has claimed that Arsene Wenger convinced him to join Arsenal.

The France Under-21 international is expected to complete a move to the Emirates Stadium before the start of the new season.

"I was very impressed," Sanogo told France Football. "Monsieur Wenger had come to see me directly in Paris. He told me that I would have my chance and reassured me about my injury.

"He said he had followed me for many seasons. It was this trip that was decisive in my decision. I opted for Arsenal."

Sanogo's current contract with Auxerre is due to expire at the end of the month.