LUCAS TORREIRA has revealed that a chat with international team-mate Luis Suarez helped sealed his loan move from Arsenal to Atletico Madrid.
The Uruguayan was long linked with a move away from North London, having become a bit-part player under Mikel Arteta.
And when Arsenal finally shelled out Thomas Partey’s £45million release clause on Deadline Day, Torreira headed the other way.
Speaking to AS, the 24-year-old has delved deeper into the transfer… and Suarez’s involvement.
He said: “Look, my negotiation lasted until the last day of the transfer market but I had already been talking to Luis (Suarez).
“His arrival gives an important bonus to the team because of everything he generates as a player.
“He has a great track record and a lot of leadership.
“He is one of the best strikers in the world, it is no coincidence that he is the third highest scorer in Barcelona’s history.
“Personally, sharing the team and the selection with him is something I really enjoy. Honestly, I try to learn from him every day, I make the most of it.”
Torreira, who has already made seven appearances for his new side, also opened up on the differences between LaLiga and the Premier League.
He added: “The big difference is that Spanish football is very technical, slow, where the teams have great team management and possession.
“I also noticed that when attacking, the teams are very vertical.
“In the Premier everything is much more fierce, with friction and contact, with freedom on the part of the referees and at times they do not charge so much.
“I’ve been here for a short time, but hopefully I can do well personally and in the group.”
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