Arsenal have suffered a huge blow in their pursuit of Real Madrid playmaker Isco, as the Santiago Bernabeu fan-favourite has declared his happiness at staying put with the Spanish giants and is pleased with how often he has played this term.
Chelsea and Manchester United are also reportedly interested in the playmaker.
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According to the Metro, the Spaniard reportedly fell out with Real boss Carlo Ancelotti earlier in the season and was prepared to leave the club.
Arsene Wenger was ready to pounce on the promising attacking midfielder’s apparent unhappiness in Madrid when the summer transfer window opened – and was readying a £32m bid.
However, his latest comments suggest the youngster won’t be leaving Ancelotti’s side in the summer.
“Changing me is just like changing another, said Isco.
“Those that do not play are happy and it’s normal. When I am happy when I don’t play I will retire from football,” he continued.
“I am happy with my role in the team and I have played more than I thought, I insist.”
With Gareth Bale, James Rodriguez and Luka Modric ahead of him in the pecking order, the 23-year-old has found playing time hard to come by in the first-team for much of the season.
Nonetheless, injury to Modric – since mid-April – has seen the playmaker star in his absence – and he looks to be settling into the Los Blancos midfield.
Most recently, the Spain international netted a stunning equaliser versus Valencia. Have a watch of his strike below…
Despite the goal, the draw with Los Che is a devastating blow to Real’s title hopes – and leaves Barcelona on the brink of securing the title – as they sit four points behind Luis Eurique’s side with just two games remaining.