Arsenal news: Lucas Torreira reveals how Mesut Ozil impacted surprise shirt number choice

The Uruguay international joined the north Londoners last month from Serie A side Sampdoria for a fee of £26m.

Upon announcing his signing, it was revealed that the 23-year-old had been assigned the No 11 shirt.

The decision perplexed many Gunners fans, who were quick to point out the fact that defensive midfielders aren’t traditionally given numbers historically reserved for creative players.

Torreira explained his decision in a recent interview with Sport890 and revealed that it was partly motivated by his eagerness to sit next to his new midfield partner Mesut Ozil in the changing room.

“I wanted to choose the 34,” the Uruguayan said of his surprise decision to chose the No 11 shirt.

“But it was already taken by [Granit] Xhaka, so I chose 11 because it is my birthday and I will have the opportunity to sit next to [Mesut] Ozil in the locker room.

“My place is next to Mesut. It’s amazing, a player who was world champion and had a great career.”

Although he’s only been on Arsenal’s books for a matter of weeks, Torreira is already enjoying life in north London.

He added: “I’m happy to be part of a team as important as Arsenal and play in the best league in the world.”

Torreira has yet to make his debut for Unai Emery’s side but will do so tomorrow afternoon against Lazio.

“At the moment I am very happy with the players who are with here with us,” Emery said on Wednesday night when asked if there could be any more new arrivals at the Emirates.

“There are more coming; Nacho Monreal, Lucas [Torreira] and [Granit] Xhaka will start to play some minutes on Saturday.”

Arsenal’s Premier League campaign kicks off a week on Sunday when they welcome champions Manchester City to the Emirates.