Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain has revealed that he could’ve joined Arsenal over the summer, but chose the Italian side instead thanks to the faith of club president Aurelio De Laurentiis.
The 26-year-old, who arrived in Naples from Real Madrid for a fee of around €40 million in July, was believed to be on his way to the Premier League club during last summer’s transfer window, though he admits that he never had any personal contact with them.
Higuain spoke to The Times about why he chose to sign with the Azzurri and conceded that he’s grateful for the confidence everyone has shown in him since his arrival in Italy.
“The farewell to Real Madrid? There was interest from Arsenal, but I had never spoken with the Gunners,” said the Argentine international.
“Real had spoken to me about a deal that they were negotiating with Arsenal, but in the end I arrived at Napoli and they bought my ticket.
“The Neapolitans have quickly encouraged me, I’m very grateful. Above all I thank president De Laurentiis for everything he’s done for me.
“He concluded the transfer agreements very quickly, this shows how much trust he has in my qualities.
“Moreover, [Rafa] Benitez has put me at ease. This is also why I chose Napoli.”
