Arsenal becoming unsure over Thomas Lemar deal with other Monaco exits reducing chances of transfer

ARSENAL are becoming less optimistic over a deal for Monaco’s Thomas Lemar, according to reports.

The Gunners have set their sights on the highly-rated French midfielder as they continue to strengthen their squad ahead of next season.

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But BBC Sport’s David Ornstein has cast doubt over a move after tweeting that the departures of other players are making it difficult for a deal to be done.

He said: “Arsenal (are) growing less optimistic of signing Lemar.

“Still trying but other Monaco exits reduce chances. Intention remains to keep Sanchez #AFC.”

Reports suggest Lemar is desperate to join Arsene Wenger at the Emirates.

And the 21-year-old winger is ready for a bust-up with Monaco if they play hardball over his dream move.

But with the Ligue 1 champions having already sold Tiemoue Bakayoko to Chelsea and Bernardo Silva to Manchester City, a deal is becoming less likely.

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Benjamin Mendy has also been linked with a move to City which could harm Arsenal’s chase of Lemar even more.

The Gunners reportedly have already had a £45million bid waved away by Monaco.

SunSport understands a long term deal on around £90,000-a-week has been agreed between the Gunners and the player’s representatives.

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Lemar has another three years left on his current deal and the numbers agreed with the Gunners dwarf his current relatively modest Ligue 1 pay packet.

The Gunners are keen to maintain momentum in the transfer window following the club-record signing of striker Alexandre Lacazette.

But it looks as though Arsenal may have to smash their club transfer record again this summer to have any chance of landing Lemar this summer as Monaco dig their heels in.

Keep up to date with all the latest news, gossip, rumours and done deals in SunSport’s live transfer blog