It was always going to be a long shot, with the Monaco and France international striker Kylian Mbappe being one of the most sought after young players in football right now, but going by the reports in the press Arsenal were in the mix.
It may even have been down to just us and the Spanish champions Real Madrid, along with the possibility that the 18-year old forward may choose to stay with his current club for the time being and continue to develop with the coaching staff that have got him this far.
That is now looking unlikely and so is a transfer to north London and the English Premier League, with Metro reporting that Mbappe has held talks with Monaco and has made it clear that Real Madrid is the only club he wants to move to.
If this is true it is a bit of a blow for Arsenal and Arsene Wenger but, as I say, it was always a long shot. At least this particular transfer chase is out of the way quickly and hopefully this will allow the boss to fully focus on signing the players who will strengthen the Arsenal side for next season.
Who will that be Gooners? Lacazette? Mahrez?
Bob.