Arsene Wenger has spoken about Arsenal’s failed move for Thomas Lemar in his pre-Bournemouth press conference, somewhat admitting the Monaco winger turned the Gunners down.
Arsenal attempted to sign the Monaco midfielder on deadline day last Thursday, but were unable to get the deal over the line.
The line from the club was that there was simply not enough time to get the deal completed, as Lemar was due to feature for France in a World Cup qualifier that evening.
However, some reports have suggested the 21-year-old just didn’t want to join Arsenal. Wenger has denied that theory.
Did Lemar not come because he didn't fancy #AFC – "That is not true." #AFC
— Mark Mann-Bryans (@MarkyMBryans) September 7, 2017
Rather confusing from Wenger. Says Lemar didn't turn #afc down but he "decided to stay in Monaco".
— James Olley (@JamesOlley) September 7, 2017
Lemar not joining Arsenal meant that Alexis Sanchez remained an Arsenal player – with the Chilean having been set to join Manchester City on deadline day. Both players will have to put the failed transfer out of their mind and give their best for their respective clubs.
"Lemar is now in Monaco and has to focus on Monaco, Sanchez is here and has to focus here." #AFC
— Mark Mann-Bryans (@MarkyMBryans) September 7, 2017
Depending on your perspective, saying that Lemar decided to stay at Monaco is the same as saying he turned Arsenal down. Whatever happened on deadline day, the transfer window is now over. It’s time to focus on actually playing football now.
The whole thing will surely kick-off again when the January window approaches, but it might be best to focus on what we have instead of on what we don’t.