Despite two failed bids, Monaco’s Thomas Lemar is flattered by Arsenal’s interest in completing a transfer deal to sign him this summer.
That’s according to a report in the Daily Star, who claim that the 21-year-old is happy to see his efforts recognised by some of Europe’s top sides.
Tottenham were reportedly interested too, but will seemingly not stand in their rivals’ way and instead are looking towards other, less expensive targets than the Monaco creative midfielder.
Two Arsenal bids, the most recent being £35m, have been rejected by last season’s Ligue 1 champions. Leonardo Jardim is keen to retain the majority of his key players and avoid a full raid on the squad which surprised many by reaching the Champions League semi-finals and leaving PSG runners-up domestically.
However, Lemar is not interested in forcing a move away from France if Monaco don’t accept an offer for his services. He is on good terms with Jardim, who himself signed a contract extension last month.
Another year under his management could be beneficial for Lemar’s progression as he continues improving, whilst the club’s hierarchy have already made steps to encourage him to remain at the Stade Louis II ahead of the new campaign.
An improved contract offer is expected to be tabled, whilst he hasn’t been motivated to leave and follow in the footsteps of Bernardo Silva, who joined Manchester City last month.
Lemar still has three years remaining on his existing deal and is in a similar position to Kylian Mbappé.
With next summer’s World Cup on the horizon, a lucrative move abroad now could jeopardise his place among Didier Deschamps’ plans in the starting line-up.