Arsenal have been given a clear path to secure the services of Southampton midfielder Mario Lemina, as Manchester United's interest in the Gabon international is reportedly not genuine.
football.london understands there is interest from the Gunners in the midfielder, who would cost in the region of £15million, but a number of other Premier League clubs are also interested, namely the Red Devils.
However, our sister site the Manchester Evening News states that the club have downplayed the reported interest in the Gabon international, with United 's name thrown into the mix in order to whip up an auction for the player.
25-year-old Lemina has emerged as a midfield target for Unai Emery's Arsenal, who have so far only added Brazilian starlet Gabriel Martinelli to their squad in the summer window.
A transfer for Lemina appears to be imminent as he did not travel with Southampton's squad for a pre-season training trip to Austria but it appears United won't be in the running.
That gives Arsenal a huge boost in their pursuit for the midfielder, who has started 38 out of 76 Premier League matches for Southampton during his two seasons in England.
The former Juventus midfielder would not be a direct replacement for Aaron Ramsey, who left to join Juventus on a free transfer, but his arrival could spark a midfield reshuffle.
Should he move to the Emirates Stadium, the chances of an exit for Egyptian midfielder Mohamed Elneny would increase significantly as he has been unable to secure regular playing time under Emery.
And Lemina may have already hinted that he wants a move to north London.
When he was linked with a move to England, Lemina was specifically asked about Arsenal's interest.
He told Foot Mercato: "I am flattered by the interest of Arsenal. I am playing for a big club now but I am happy about the interest of other clubs.
"I do not have a preference for any league. My future depends on who really wants me."
The Saints actually beat off competition from the north Londoners when they signed Lemina from Juventus for £18million in the 2017 summer transfer window.
But Arsene Wenger was not entirely convinced despite receiving glowing reports from Arsenal scouts in regards to the midfielder and that left Southampton with a free run at the player.
