Liverpool and Barcelona have joined Arsenal in the race to sign Monaco star Thomas Lemar next year, according to reports.
Monaco vice-president Vadim Vasilyev has now revealed that the Gunners were on the brink of roping in Lemar on transfer deadline day this summer.
Arsenal had reached an agreement with Monaco over a £90million transfer fee for Lemar during the fag end of the summer transfer window.
But the deal did not go through as the French winger opted to stay put at the Ligue 1 club which forced Arsenal to deny Alexis Sanchez a move to league rivals Manchester City.
Gunners contract rebels Mesut Ozil and Sanchez have been heavily linked with moves away from the North London club in January as both of them have refused to sign new deals at the Emirates and have entered the final ten month of their contract with Arsenal.
And reports claim that Wenger has reignited his interest in Lemar and is planning to launch a bid next summer – but will face stiff competition for his signature.
According to the Mirror, Barcelona and Liverpool are also keen to secure the services of the 21-year-old winger.
Lemar had played a crucial role in guiding Monaco to Ligue 1 title triumph last season – with nine goals and 11 assists to his name.
But the report claims that the Gunners bosses are confident of landing Lemar ahead of their rivals.
Lemar has emerged as one of the rising stars in Europe and the final the decision will be taken by the French player.
Speaking about Lemar last month, Vasilyev told Sky Sports: “Liverpool were really interested. But it was Arsenal that was really close to finalising the deal.
“It was quite close. At the same time it was just too late, not enough time to really follow up on this deal.”
