Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta wanted to strengthen his defensive options in the January transfer window and was keen on Barcelona centre-back Samuel Umtiti. However, despite the Catalan giants being willing to sell their centre-back, the Frenchman snubbed the opportunity to join the north London club. Arteta is dealing with an injury crisis in defence, with Calum Chambers and Shkodran Mustafi sidelined through injury. According to French publication, Le Parisen, Umtiti rejected the opportunity to join Arsenal, even though Barca were happy to sell the player if their valuation was met. JUST IN: Aston Villa rejected Odion Ighalo transfer 24 hours before Man Utd sealed striker deal

Source: Express February 01, 2020 06:01 UTC