West Ham United fans were hugely excited when they landed Felipe Anderson in 2018, and even more so after a superb first season with the club.
The Brazilian arrived in a big-money deal from Lazio, and bagged nine goals and four assists for the Hammers to immediately make a Premier League impact.
However, the goal involvements dried up, and he registered just one goal and four assists in 25 league games last season, with David Moyes seemingly unconvinced.
West Ham were clearly open to offers for Anderson, and it looked like a shock move to Arsenal may have actually been a possibility.
The Telegraph reported in August that Edu wanted to sign Anderson having worked with him in the Brazilian national team setup, and the Gunners had looked into a loan deal before signing Willian.
The Mirror added in September that Arsenal were offered a deal for Anderson, but West Ham wanted a £5million loan fee – and the Gunners said no.
Arsenal have lacked creativitiy this season, and Willian has largely been a disappointment, but it seems that the right decision was made on Anderson anyway.
West Ham sent him to Porto last month, and he has made just two appearances for the Portuguese side, both substitute appearances totalling just 49 minutes.
Now 27 and struggling to find form, Anderson is in danger of drifting away – and whilst Edu has his doubters at Arsenal, it seems that he made the right choice here.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
