Arsenal could reportedly be prevented from signing Atletico Madrid attacker Thomas Lemar during the January transfer window as the Frenchman is set for a spell on the sidelines.
The Gunners have been linked with a swoop for the 24-year-old ahead of the opening of the winter market.
However, Atletico confirmed on Tuesday that Lemar would be absent from this weekend's clash with Levante, having picked up a hamstring injury in the win over Real Betis before the international break.
Diego Simeone's side have not put a timeframe on the attacker's return, although Arsenal's hopes of completing a January deal for Lemar are likely to be impacted by the fitness update.
The former Caen youngster has largely failed to impress since joining Atletico from Monaco in 2018, managing just three goals in 64 appearances in all competitions.
This season, Lemar, who has a contract at the Wanda Metropolitano until the summer of 2023, has not scored in 21 appearances in all competitions for Los Rojiblancos.
Matt Law
