Mikel Arteta has revealed all about his chat with Xavi Alonso(Image: Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images)

Mikel Arteta has disclosed that he sought counsel from Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso prior to securing one of Arsenal's summer signings. The Spaniard reached out to his longtime associate before bringing in Piero Hincapie during the latter stages of the transfer window.

Arsenal secured Hincapie on an initial loan arrangement from Bayer Leverkusen. The deal contains an option to purchase the Ecuador international for £45million, as he joined whilst Jakub Kiwior departed through the exit door.

Whilst Hincapie will provide backup for Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba in the short term, the Ecuador international could prove to be a strategic long-term acquisition for the Gunners. It's hardly surprising that Arteta sought expertise regarding the 23-year-old.

Few individuals will understand the defender better than Alonso, given that 121 of his 197 club outings occurred under the former Liverpool midfielder. Alonso evidently offered a glowing endorsement.

"Yes, for sure, I had to," said Arteta on contacting the ex-Leverkusen manager. "I mean, someone like him that I know so...