Arsenal’s move for French winger Thomas Lemar has been blocked by Ligue 1 club AS Monaco who have rejected a bid for the player as the French side don’t want to lose any more players, according to a report on Get French Football News.
The Gunners were hoping to lure the exciting attacker to the Emirates in this summer’s transfer window but have received a major setback in their pursuit as Monaco rejected their initial bid of €35m.
It is understood that the 21-year-old attacker is open to a move to the Premier League club as he has always wanted to work under manager Arsene Wenger.
Lemar’s desire to join the club is what prompted Wenger to make a bid but Monaco are remaining resolute as Arsenal consider submitting another bid.
Lemar was a standout performer for the young Monaco side last season, finding his name on the scoresheet 14 times in all competitions. The Frenchman also showed his creativity as he assisted 17 goals, as well as scoring 14 himself, which caught the eye of many European clubs.
Lemar’s father wants the youngster to sign a contract extension at the club instead of making a move this summer as he feels that by saying at Monaco he has the best chance of making the France squad for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Arsenal are considering another bid for Lemar but they may have to turn their attentions to another target as Monaco remain firm.
