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Germany defender Benedikt Howedes has revealed he rejected a transfer to Arsenal this summer to stay with Schalke.
The Bundesliga club confirmed earlier this week that two foreign sides had tabled offers for the 27-year-old, who has a buyout clause in his current contract that runs until 2017.
And despite Gunners midfielder Mesut Ozil recently talking up a potential move for his compatriot to the Premier League, Howedes has now revealed he rejected a move abroad - which included the chance to join Arsenal.
"Milan and Arsenal have really been keen on my services, this is what I am able to confirm," the World Cup winner told kicker-Sportmagazin.
"Still I have not opted against them, I have decided in favour of Schalke. My job is not done here yet.
"And, especially after last season, I told myself I do not want to leave this way. I am a key player of this club."
Despite missing out on Howedes, Arsenal are believed to be on the verge of signing Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech.
The 33-year-old shot-stopper looks set to leave Stamford Bridge this summer in search of regular first-team football following his relegation to the Chelsea bench last season.
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The Gunners could also land Blues goalkeeping coach Christophe Lollichon should he follow Cech to north London.
