Arsenal Blow as Alexis Claude-Maurice rejects move in favour of Borussia Monchengladbach

Arsenal’s move for Lorient forward Alexis Claude-Maurice is off after the striker confirmed he wants to join Borussia Monchengladbach. The Gunners have had two bids rejected for the 21-year-old attacker but had been confident of striking a deal worth around €20million (£17.83m). Reports earlier this month claimed the forward had gone as far as agreeing personal terms with the Gunners and was keen on a move to the Emirates. However, Claude-Maurice has appeared to end the speculation over a move to England by revealing he wants to join Gladbach.

‘I want to join Gladbach,’ confirmed Claude-Maurice. They are a club that focus on young players, there is a good structure, they are playing in the Europa League. I like their project & it suits me.

The news will come as a blow to Unai Emery, who is yet to make a signing this summer with six weeks left in the transfer market. The Spaniard is keen to reinforce his attack after the departure of Danny Welbeck, who left after his contract expired earlier this month. Arsenal have just £45m to spend this summer after failing to qualify for the Champions League for a third successive season.