Arsenal’s attempted summer clear-out has been hampered by their players refusing to accept less money elsewhere.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is reportedly struggling to offload a lot of the deadwood that would help raise funds for new incomings, with players unwilling to take a pay cut to join a side who can offer more first-team opportunities.

According to the Daily Mail, the Gunners have tried to ship out Jack Wilshere, David Ospina, Kieran Gibbs, Carl Jenkinson, Lucas Perez, Calum Chambers and Mathieu Debuchy, which would trim £19m off the wage bill. However, Arsenal have offloaded just one player this summer- Wojciech Szczesny.

The Londoners are reportedly weighing up making a lofty fourth bid for AS Monaco’s Thomas Lemar, which will be closer to £50m after seeing offers for £30m, £40m and £45m rejected. Arsenal are also raising funds so they can make an offer to Nice’s Jean-Michael Seri.

Wilshere had been linked to Sampdoria, West Ham United and Antalyaspor this summer, but has so far failed to agree a move from the Emirates. David Ospina looked destined for a move to Turkey before interest waned.

Kieran Gibbs’ lofty asking price and wage demands recently scared off West Bromwich Albion, although Newcastle United and Watford are believed to be keen. Mathieu Debuchy has long been up for sale but interest from a number of sides has failed to materialise into a move.

Carl Jenkinson is reportedly a target for three Italian clubs this summer, as well as a Premier League newcomer, but he’s not budging on his £2.3m salary at Arsenal. Calum Chambers has been linked with Crystal Palace, the Eagles offering £16m to sign him recently.

Lucas Perez has requested a transfer from Arsenal ahead of the new season, citing lies and broken promises from manager Arsene Wenger. A return to Spain and Deportivo has been mooted but there’s been no progress made.