Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Thomas Lemar did indeed turn down the chance to sign for Arsenal on the final day of the transfer window.
Wenger has confirmed that reports claiming that it was Lemar who wanted to stay at Monaco and not sign for Arsenal on Transfer Deadline Day are true.
“Lemar chose to stay at Monaco,” Wenger told beIN Sports, reports the Evening Standard. “You have to respect what happens on the negotiation side. I know we live in an era of transparency but at some stage, to respect everybody, you have to not talk too much about that.”
The 21-year-old didn’t want to move despite the Gunners offering Monaco a package of £92m, which included £17m in add-ons.
The reasons why Lemar didn’t want to sign for Arsenal are yet to be divulged but considering he’s already made five 90-minute appearances for the Ligue 1 club this season, it stands to reason that he simply sees himself getting more playing time in France.
"Obviously Lemar scores a stunning goal tonight." – Every Arsenal fan. pic.twitter.com/EaT3JQsqIg
— Bagheera (@BagheeraLoui) August 31, 2017
Some reports suggest that the winger’s decision was because the Gunners aren’t in the Champions League, which would be understandable, but we missed out on the Champions League last season. It’s not new information. And Lemar was being reported to want to work under Arsene Wenger all summer.
Lemar deal looks "dead" (again). Am told #afc offered £75m + £17m in add-ons. Lemar did not want to play for a Europa League club (ouch).
— James Olley (@JamesOlley) August 31, 2017
Lemar’s still young and doing well for club and country. In fact, the night this all went down he scored a brace for France. Plus, given the state of Arsenal right now, can you really blame the lad for not wanting to get involved?
With Lemar staying at Monaco, Alexis Sanchez stays at Arsenal.