Winger Thomas Lemar has reportedly told AS Monaco that he would like to join Arsenal this summer.
The Gunners have been strongly linked with a move for Lemar, who could cost the Gunners in the region of £45m, but Monaco are not keen on losing any more of their star men.
However, according to L'Equipe, Lemar has informed the Ligue 1 champions that he would prefer to depart Stade Louis II before the end of the transfer window.
During his two years in Monte Carlo, the playmaker has netted 19 goals in 80 appearances in all competitions, and Arsene Wenger regards the French international as a key addition to his squad.
It has been claimed that Monaco have entered the race to sign Alexis Sanchez from the North Londoners, but Wenger has frequently insisted that the Chilean will not be leaving before next summer.
Wenger has also been interested in Kylian Mbappe, but the teenager could move to Real Madrid if the La Liga giants part ways with Gareth Bale.
Darren Plant
