Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has once again confirmed he could have signed for Arsenal before his move to the Bernabeu.
Valverde has been one of the breakout stars for Real Madrid this season, making ten appearances in all competitions to date.
He’s impressed when given a chance, with some believing the 21-year-old could be set for a bright future at the heart of Madrid’s midfield.
It’s been a steep rise for Valverde, who arrived at Madrid two years ago in a £4.5m deal from Peñarol.
Before his move, he was heavily linked with Arsenal, who were also keen but were ultimately pipped to the post by Real Madrid.
And, speaking to Real Madrid TV about his life so far, the midfielder has admitted he went to train with the Gunners at one point.
“Arsenal asked about me when I was with Peñarol, and I had travelled to practice with them,” he told the show, relayed by El País.
“It was very small. Sharing training with Alexis Sánchez and the fact that he came to help me with the language was something very nice.”
It’s not the first time Valverde has spoken about the trip, having revealed details about the experience in the past as well.
Arsenal will undoubtedly be cursing their luck that they missed out, with his name joining the long list of players they could have had down the years.
