Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain insists he never heard from Arsenal in the summer.
The former Real Madrid star was a target for the Gunners before signing for Napoli.
When asked if a switch to Arsenal was close, he told The Times: "Yes - but I did not speak to them.
"They [Real Madrid] said Arsenal wanted to sign me, that they were there negotiating but it was Napoli who came and bought me.
"They persuaded me with their conviction. I am very grateful to Napoli, to the president, too, for everything he has done for me, and for everything he did to buy me quickly.
"Knowing how much I was wanted gave me a lot of confidence.
"The manager spoke very well to me too. He is one of the reasons that convinced me to come.
"He is a sincere person, an honest person. The things he said have to remain between us, but he made it a very easy decision."
