The full-back claims he was close to joining the Italian giants until the club was taken over by new owners.
New West Ham United signing Alvaro Arbeloa has told Spanish radio station Cadena COPE that he was close to joining AC Milan this summer but ultimately turned down multiple offers to join the Hammers.
Arbeloa became the Hammers’ 11th major arrival of the summer when he signed a one-year deal at the London Stadium on transfer deadline day last week.
The 33-year-old left Real Madrid after seven seasons this summer upon the expiration of his contract and the man who played nearly 100 times for Liverpool in just two-and-a-half seasons last decade has now returned to the Premier League.
However, he revealed that it could have been very different, explaining that he thought he was set to join Italian giants AC Milan until they were taken over by new owners.
The World Cup-winner told Cadena COPE: “The conversations with AC Milan were at an advanced stage but the Chinese takeover of the club complicated the deal. I took a decision not to continue with this option and fortunately, this offer [from West Ham] came along.”
The ex-Spain international also explained that he had numerous options to remain in La Liga but the man who has played 237 times for Real did not want to feature again for any other side in his native country.
Arbeloa added:”It’s difficult to leave Real Madrid and choose another destination. It’s like leaving heaven and having to choose a place on earth.
“I wanted an option that convinced me in every way. I had offers from Spain but I didn’t want to wear any other shirt than that of Real Madrid in Spain so I opted to leave. The choice of West Ham, the club, the city, the coach and the fans, felt good in every way and here I am.”
The veteran is likely to compete with recent England call-up Michail Antonio and Sam Byram for the first-choice spot at right-back this season.
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