Cesc Fabregas believes Arsenal were close to signing Xabi Alonso in the summer.

Arsene Wenger was reportedly willing to pay £14million for the Spanish international midfielder, but the Liverpool man stayed at Anfield when the Reds failed to sign Gareth Barry.

"I like to play with Xabi, of course, he is an incredible player. Last year, there was such a possibility because Arsenal was chasing him, but finally he ended up staying in Liverpool,” said Fabregas.

Alonso has gone on to reestablish himself in the Liverpool side under Rafael Benitez this season, making a possible move to the Emirates Stadium somewhat unlikely.