Arsenal are reportedly still very much in talks to bring Monaco winger, Thomas Lemar, to north London.

Dharmesh Sheth revealed on Sky Sports’ Transfer Centre show that Arsenal are apparently still in talks to sign Lemar from Monaco, despite the Ligue 1 club insisting that the 21-year-old isn’t for sale.

In fact, Sheth believes that Monaco could be saying this to encourage the Gunners to bid even more.

“Despite Monaco’s insistence that he stays at the club, we understand Arsenal maintain a keen interest in the player,” the reporter said.

“It’s thought talks between the clubs continue.

“Monaco’s not for sale stance has been seen in some quarters as a way to encourage Arsenal to make a higher offer.

“Perhaps we haven’t heard the last of Thomas Lemar in this window.”

Arsenal have allegedly made a third offer of £45m for the France international after having bids of £30m and £40m knocked back.

Arsene Wenger is said to be keen on the winger, who scored 14 goals and assisted 17 last season, and is therefore prepared to continue talks.

Whether Sheth is just parroting what other sections of the media are saying right now, or whether he actually knows anything substantial, you never know these days.

story trackerWenger has confirmed that Arsenal are still ‘active’ in the transfer market and considering Lemar is the only player the Gunners have been heavily linked with since signing Alexandre Lacazette, it’s possible that this is what the boss is referring to.

Of course, if talks are indeed ongoing, Arsenal might not get anywhere. Monaco have already sold Bernardo Silva and Benjamin Mendy to Manchester City, and Tiemoue Bakayoko to Chelsea, all while trying to keep hold of Kylian Mbappe by the skin of their teeth.

Perhaps no amount of money will force them to part with another star.