Tino Livramento admits seeing Jamal Musiala leave Chelsea for success with Bayern Munich did give him thoughts of doing the same before his move to Southampton.
The wing-back left Chelsea this summer for Saints and is now a first-choice for manager Ralph Hasenhuttl.
He told the Daily Mail: "I was seeing a lot of young boys playing at the highest level of football. I'm good friends with [former teammate] Jamal Musiala from Bayern Munich and he's been tearing it up.
"He made a huge decision to leave [Chelsea] when he was younger and was rewarded with the way he's playing and getting opportunities.
"I wouldn't say he made me but it just highlighted to me that if you want to take that next step in your development maybe this is a different way to go.
"I thought I was ready to take that step up as an individual and had to look at where was the best pathway for me to maybe get given the opportunity to show now I'm ready to take that next step.
"When Southampton showed interest it was hard for me to turn down a club that has proven to be a great place for young players to grow and get given the opportunity to show a bigger audience that they are ready.
"I can't say that because it was the best for me it will be the best for other people in my position.
"Everyone's got their different pathways and this is more suited for me."
Need a VPN? Or seeking to switch? Then support Tribal Football by clicking here to sign up with our official partners NordVPN. Not only will you receive the best VPN experience, but also great discounts by signing up via Tribal Football. Thanks for your support!