Arsenal's hopes of signing Houssem Aouar from Lyon took a blow over the weekend, with the midfield declaring that he was staying with the Ligue 1 side.
The Gunners are desperate to add a new creative midfielder to their squad before the transfer window shuts today, and Aouar is thought to be their number one target.
An initial bid for Aouar was rejected by Lyon last week and the Gunners were planning to make an improved second bid to get a deal over the line.
But, speaking after scoring in Lyon's draw with Marseille on Sunday evening, Aouar conceded that he was ready to stay at the Groupama Stadium this season.
He said: "I felt that I could still bring things to this team and the club, the club that raised me, quite simply."
Lyon also reportedly announced to French media on Saturday that Aouar and Memphis Depay will be staying at the club.
RMC Sport claimed that the French side ended negotiations with all clubs for Aouar and Depay.
Both players were named in the squad for the Marseille game, with Depay named on the bench.
Later on Sunday however, Lyon sporting director Juninho Pernambucano confirmed that Depay could still leave after an agreement with struck with Barcelona.
According to El Chringuito, Juninho said: "Depay has an agreement with Barcelona.
"It is possible that tomorrow (Monday) he will go to Barca, but it is not certain."
New Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman is thought to be a big fan of the former Manchester United forward, having worked with him during his spell as Netherlands manager.
Arsenal will be hoping that Lyon also have a change of heart over Aouar, with the Gunners scrambling to sign a new midfielder on deadline day.
