Arsenal tried and failed to bring in Kostas Manolas from Roma in the closing stages of the January transfer window, according to a report.
The Gunners are said to have turned to the Greece international after having a separate 'derisory' offer for West Bromwich Albion's Jonny Evans knocked back, rumoured to be in the region of £12m.
Sky Sport Italia suggests that Arsenal's desperate search for central defensive cover saw them make contact with Roma on deadline day, but they were turned away by the Serie A side.
Roma were reportedly unwilling to sanction Manolas's departure due to the late nature of the enquiry, giving them little time to seek a replacement.
The same report suggests that Arsenal could return with a formal bid in the summer, however, while Juventus may also revive their interest in the 26-year-old.
Written by
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
