Defender Claims Arsenal Offer

Despite the transfer window being closed, there is always transfer gossip doing the rounds in the papers and we’ll keep you up-to-date with the latest news during the coming months. Today, Cheikhou Kouyate claims he held talks with Arsenal.

Cheikhou Kouyate has claimed he held talks with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger over a move to the Emirates but decided to stay with Anderlecht, according to Sky Sports News.

Kouyate had an excellent season with Anderlecht last season helping them lift the Belgian title. His form attracted interest from some of Europe’s top clubs during the summer and the 22-year-old has revealed he came close to moving to Premier League giants Arsenal.

It appears the fact Anderlecht safely navigated their way through a champions league third round qualifier to reach the group stages persuaded the Senegalese defender to turn down the advances of Arsene Wenger and opt to remain in Belgium.

“The fans of Anderlecht asked me to stay for the club and they showed me their appreciation,” Kouyate told the African press.

“Qualifying for the Champions League was also very important for me, because without that I think I should have been in London where I had a good contact with Arsene Wenger and Arsenal.”

Kouyate is quoted as saying by Sky Sports

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger was linked with a whole host of names after confirming his desire to sign a defender in the summer, and it seems Kouyate was one of the players on his hit-list.

Read More Arsenal transfer news

However, the Frenchman ended up empty handed as he failed to sign any fresh faces before the window slammed shut last week. But with three clean sheets in their opening three games so far, perhaps not signing a new defender was a blessing in disguise for Arsenal?!

Are you disappointed Arsenal didn’t sign a defender in the window? Get involved int he comments section.

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