Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger reportedly put a stop to negotiations with Athletic Bilbao over a summer move for Nacho Monreal.
The Spanish full-back was strongly linked with a move to the Basque outfit in the summer transfer window and it is understood that the player was keen on a return to La Liga.
However, according to Sport, Wenger was never interested in selling the 29-year-old, who has seen off competition from Kieran Gibbs to become the Premier League side's undisputed first-choice left-back.
Monreal, who has also earned 16 caps for his country, started his professional career with Osasuna, before moving on to Malaga in 2011.
The defender has started both of the Gunners' league fixtures this season.
