Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has said that Calum Chambers's intelligence and ability to play in a number of positions was crucial in his decision to sign the defender.

The 19-year-old is expected to be announced as the Gunners' latest signing later today, with reports suggesting that he will cost the club £16m.

Wenger has admitted that while Chambers does not have much experience in the Premier League, he has the quality to be a success for the club in the future.

"He hasn't played many games but the English players on the market in England are very expensive," the Daily Mail quotes Wenger as saying. "At the end of the day I was ready to take a gamble because he is one for the future.

"He is a player I wanted because I rated his quality and intelligence. He is only 19 and can play at centre-back, right-back and central midfield. I hope he will give us competition for the players in those three positions."

Chambers made 22 appearances for Southampton in the Premier League last season.