LEVANTE keeper Aitor Fernandez claims Arsenal wanted him as Emi Martinez’s replacement.
Instead Alex Runarsson arrived at the Emirates as Bernd Leno’s understudy, despite Fernandez insisting the Gunners and Athletic Bilbao showed summer interest in him.
Spanish keeper Aitor Fernandez says Arsenal were keen on him in the summer but insists he was happy to stay with LevanteCredit: Getty Images – Getty
In the end Iceland stopper Alex Runarsson arrived at Arsenal from Dijon to replace Emi MartinezCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And Spaniard Fernandez claimed he was happy to remain with his unfashionable LaLiga side after being a key man in keeping them up.
He told AS: “The club transmitted calm and I wanted to stay.
“We looked at the fact I’d got the affection of the fans.
“It’s true there was contact with Athletic Bilbao and Arsenal.
“Quite a lot of clubs have asked and it’s true those two did ask. I feel I have lots of support at Levante.”
And while the 29-year-old stayed put, Runarsson joined Arsenal from Ligue 2 club Dijon.
⚽ Read our Arsenal live blog for the latest news from The Emirates
But most Gunners’ fans will be more concerned about losing Martinez rather than who arrived instead.
That’s because the Argentinian has looked one of the Premier League’s best stoppers since exiting Arsenal for Aston Villa.
While Leno and Co languish in mid-table, Martinez has helped Villa up to sixth place, with the Prem’s equal-best defensive record.
Harry Kane reveals what happened with Arsenal trial and tells Piers Morgan he won’t ever return to Tottenham rivals
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
