Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has admitted that his side had approached for the services of Kylian Mbappe last summer, only to see AS Monaco snub their advances.
The 18-year-old has emerged as one of the shining lights for the Principality outfit, who are on course to lift their first Ligue 1 title since the millennium.
Mbappe has showcased his extreme pace on a number of occasions this campaign, but it is his keen eye for goal which has captured the attention of Europe’s elite.
Wenger had previously compared the teenager to former Gunners great Thierry Henry and confirmed the club were keeping a track on his progress.
However, the 67-year-old has now revealed that the Gunners did make contact for the youngster last summer, but Monaco were not keen on the proposed deal.
“I approached him last year because I really believe that he has an exceptional future ahead of him,” he was quoted as saying on Metro.
“Unfortunately today, all these young players are in full view from very, very early on and all the big clubs want them.
“I hope the fact that everybody is already talking of nobody but him isn’t going to have a negative impact on his future.”
The likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United have also been credited with an interest in the highly-rated forward, but it is understood that Monaco will be reluctant to sell unless they receive an offer in excess of £50m.
With the future of Alexis Sanchez still uncertain, the Gunners are on the lookout for a new marksman, and this has brought the young but yet impressive, Mbappe onto their focus.
Mbappe has already notched 13 goals and five assists for Monaco this term, and he could add a few more to his tally considering his rich vein of form since February – nine goals and two assists.
