Alvaro Arbeloa has revealed that he rejected offers from AC Milan and Spanish clubs in order to join West Ham United.
The 33-year-old, whose previous Premier League experience was a two-season spell at Liverpool, signed a one-year deal with the Hammers on transfer deadline day last week.
The defender, who was available on a free transfer after leaving Real Madrid following a seven-year stint at the Bernabeu, has revealed that he was approached by a handful of clubs, but decided that West Ham was the right option.
"The conversations with AC Milan were at an advanced stage but the Chinese takeover of the [Italian] club complicated the deal," Arbeloa told Cadena Cope. "I took a decision not to continue with this option and fortunately, this offer [West Ham] came along.
"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.
"I'm very happy, I am where I want to be and I'm looking forward to playing."
The Spaniard has also played for Deportivo La Coruna in his career.
Danielle Joynson
